Imagine serving a succulent chicken dish that bursts with savory flavors and delightful textures. This herbed spinach-filled chicken recipe is perfect for spontaneous dinners, impressing family and friends with its rich combination of ingredients. The crunchy pine nuts and sharp parmesan elevate the dish to a memorable meal.
Ingredients for Poultry Essentials: Herbed Spinach-Filled Chicken Breasts
PLAN/PURCHASE
THE BRINE
- 1 quart (1 liter) filtered cold water
- 1/4 cup (60 grams) kosher salt
THE FILLING
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) unsalted sweet butter
- 1 tablespoon (approximately 40 grams) finely minced yellow onion
- 4 ounces (115 grams) spinach, more details below
- 2 ounces (60 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) pine nuts
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, kosher variety, to taste
- Freshly ground white pepper, to taste
THE CHICKEN
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.2 cups (150 grams) breadcrumbs, details below
- Extra virgin olive oil
How to Make Poultry Essentials: Herbed Spinach-Filled Chicken Breasts
- Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure you have an ovenproof baking dish ready for this recipe.
- Thaw Spinach: Use chopped frozen spinach; allow it to thaw completely before adding it to the pan.
- Season Breadcrumbs: Combine basic breadcrumbs with dried basil, parsley, and oregano, or customize your own spice blend.
- Gather Ingredients: Organize all your ingredients (mise en place) before starting.
- Make the Brine: In a bowl, dissolve the kosher salt in cold filtered water. Add the chicken breasts, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Chef’s Tip: While salt dissolves more easily in warm water, using cold water saves time by eliminating the need to cool the mixture before brining.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the finely minced yellow onion and cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the thawed spinach, freshly grated parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground white pepper until well combined.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Preheat the Oven: Position a rack in the lower part of the oven and preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the brine and rinse them thoroughly.
- Using a sharp paring knife, carefully create a pocket in each breast without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Evenly divide the spinach filling between the two chicken breasts.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a lightly oiled ovenproof dish. Sprinkle the prepared breadcrumbs over the top and drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Cook in the preheated oven until the chicken starts to brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), approximately 18–22 minutes.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the baked chicken to rest for 5–7 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Plate the herbed spinach-filled chicken with your favorite side dishes and enjoy this flavorful meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this herbed spinach-filled chicken breasts recipe is sure to become a favorite. The harmonious blend of spinach, parmesan, and pine nuts creates a mouthwatering experience that delights the palate every time.
