Cheesy Garlic Butter Spinach Stuffed Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that combines juicy, golden chicken with creamy, cheesy goodness, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spinach Stuffed Chicken is your dream come true. Each chicken breast is stuffed with garlicky sautéed spinach and a blend of melty cheeses, then baked to perfection and finished with a glossy cowboy butter drizzle.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner, date night, or when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss, this dish is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting. Every bite delivers a balance of savory, cheesy, and herbaceous notes that make this chicken unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender chicken stuffed with creamy, cheesy filling
• Garlic-forward flavor with a hint of smoky paprika
• Quick and easy — prep and bake in under an hour
• Elegant presentation for dinner parties or special occasions
• Customizable with optional add-ons like sun-dried tomatoes or extra cheese

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Spinach

• 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and sauté base
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Light, nutrient-packed green
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and savory backbone
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: Warm, smoky undertone
• ½ tsp dried thyme: Herbaceous flavor
• ¼ tsp black pepper & pinch of salt: Balanced seasoning

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Juicy protein base
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Prevents sticking and enhances sear
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Flavorful color and warmth
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts savory notes
• ½ tsp onion powder & ½ tsp Italian seasoning: Adds depth
• ½ tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper: Essential seasoning

For the Cheesy Filling

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Creamy meltiness
• ½ cup shredded provolone or Monterey Jack: Mild, smooth flavor
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan: Nutty, sharp accent

For the Cowboy Butter Finish

• 4 tbsp butter, melted: Rich, glossy coating
• 1 clove garlic, grated: Bold aromatic note
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley: Fresh herbal lift
• ½ tsp smoked paprika & ¼ tsp dried oregano: Adds depth and warmth
• Pinch of flaky salt: Perfect finishing touch

Optional Add-Ons

• Sun-dried tomatoes mixed into spinach
• Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• Extra mozzarella melted on top

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Spinach Stuffed Chicken

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Spinach

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
2. Add chopped spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
3. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
4. Cook 1 more minute until fragrant, then set aside to cool slightly.

Tip: Allow spinach to cool slightly before stuffing so the cheese doesn’t melt prematurely.

2. Prep the Chicken

1. Slice a deep pocket into each chicken breast.
2. Rub the outside with olive oil, then season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Stuff the Chicken

1. Fill each pocket with garlic butter spinach and a generous handful of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.
2. Press to seal and secure with toothpicks if needed.

4. Sear & Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear each stuffed breast 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
4. Brush generously with cowboy butter.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake 18–22 minutes until cooked through and filling is bubbling.

5. Finish with Cowboy Butter

1. Brush remaining cowboy butter over the cooked chicken for a rich, glossy finish.

6. Serve

1. Slice and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
2. Spoon leftover pan juices over the top for an extra cheesy-garlic punch.

Tips for Success

• Slice chicken pockets carefully to avoid cutting all the way through.
• Use a mix of cheeses for optimal melt and flavor.
• Let chicken rest 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or red pepper flakes to spice things up.

Equipment Needed

• Skillet (oven-safe recommended)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpicks (for securing stuffed chicken)

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Spinach Chicken: Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Variation: Mix sun-dried tomatoes into spinach for tangy sweetness.
• Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle additional mozzarella or provolone on top before baking.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables instead of starches.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or herb-roasted veggies.
• Drizzle with extra cowboy butter for a decadent finish.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, stuff the chicken and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours; bake just before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but drain well and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with cheese.

Is this recipe very garlicky?
It has a rich garlic flavor, but it’s balanced by cheese and butter. Adjust to taste.

Can I substitute chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness but may require slightly longer cooking.

How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheat gently to avoid drying out.

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Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Garlic Butter Spinach Stuffed Chicken breasts are a showstopper—juicy, cheesy, garlicky, and infused with rich cowboy butter. Perfect for special dinners, family meals, or whenever you crave something indulgent yet home-cooked. Each bite is a harmonious mix of melty cheese, aromatic spinach, and buttery, golden chicken that’s bound to become a favorite at your table.