Stuffed Chicken Breast Florentine: A Delicious & Easy Lunch Recipe
Looking for a lunch that's both satisfying and packed with flavor? Look no further than this delightful Stuffed Chicken Breast Florentine recipe! Tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy spinach and ricotta mixture create a truly elegant yet surprisingly simple midday meal. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion lunch or when you simply want to elevate your everyday routine.
Why You'll Love This Stuffed Chicken Breast Florentine:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, creamy ricotta, and savory Parmesan cheese is simply irresistible.
- Satisfying and Filling: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the afternoon.
- Relatively Quick to Prepare: While it looks impressive, the preparation is straightforward and doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with other cheeses, herbs, or even sun-dried tomatoes.
- Impressive Presentation: The stuffed chicken breasts look beautiful on a plate, making them perfect for entertaining guests.
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Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Carefully slice a pocket horizontally into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create space for the filling.
Sauté the Spinach:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts down significantly, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Stuff the Chicken:
- Carefully spoon the spinach and ricotta mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts, dividing it evenly.
Cook the Chicken:
You have a few options for cooking:
- Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).1 Lightly grease a baking dish. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Skillet Cooking: Heat a little more olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Serving Suggestions for Your Stuffed Chicken Florentine Lunch:
This delicious stuffed chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides for a complete and satisfying lunch:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers make a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
- Quinoa or Couscous: These grains offer a nutritious and satisfying base.
- Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent lunch, serve with a slice of crusty garlic bread.
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Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Chicken Florentine:
- Don't Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as the filling may ooze out during cooking.
- Secure the Filling (Optional): If you're worried about the filling escaping, you can secure the opening of the chicken breast with toothpicks before cooking. Remember to remove them before serving!
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the spinach and ricotta filling before stuffing and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stuff the chicken just before cooking.
Enjoy Your Delicious and Healthy Lunch!
This Stuffed Chicken Breast Florentine recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying lunch that feels special without being overly complicated. Give it a try and elevate your midday meal!