The Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with creamy feta and nutrient-rich spinach, resulting in a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its quick prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also a breeze to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of feta, spinach, and spices creates a mouth-watering taste that’s sure to impress.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, this meal is both nourishing and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet provides even heat distribution, ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly.
- Mixing Bowl: This is essential for combining your ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Filling
- 5 ounces frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Make Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach Filling
In another bowl, combine thawed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped green onions, minced garlic cloves, and dried dill. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Once chicken is cooked through, reduce heat to low. Carefully cut a pocket in each breast and stuff it with the spinach filling mixture.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Cover skillet and let it cook on low for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach! Enjoy your flavorful creation!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Serving your Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach can enhance the dish’s appeal and flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will take your meal to the next level.
With a Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad pairs well, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- Serving the chicken over quinoa adds a nutty flavor and makes it more filling.
Wrapped in Pita Bread
- Stuffing the chicken in pita bread with some veggies creates a delicious, handheld meal.
Topped with Lemon Wedges
- Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken brightens the flavors and adds zest.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Perfecting your Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach is all about technique. With these tips, you can ensure a delicious outcome every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality feta cheese can elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning; it enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out chicken breasts, so keep an eye on them to ensure they remain juicy.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain its juices.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Complement your Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach by pairing it with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances well with the richness of feta.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside this flavorful dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and texture.
- Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber brings freshness to the plate.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the chicken beautifully.
- Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus creates an appealing contrast to the dish’s richness.
- Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad adds freshness through tomatoes and basil, enhancing your meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness will balance perfectly with the savory elements of your chicken dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more delightful dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using frozen chicken breasts: Thaw your chicken before cooking for even heat distribution and better texture.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken well. Paprika, garlic powder, and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
- Overcooking the spinach: Add the spinach just until it’s warmed through. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from thawed spinach can make your dish watery. Always drain it well before using.
- Ignoring cheese quality: Use fresh feta and ricotta for a richer taste. Low-quality cheese may compromise the overall flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach:
How can I customize Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach?
You can add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor. Adjust herbs based on your preference as well.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach is a great alternative! Just sauté it lightly before adding it to the chicken mixture.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.
Final Thoughts
Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, ensuring satisfaction every time you serve it!
Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Easy Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach is a flavorful, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy feta cheese and vibrant spinach. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will love. In just 35 minutes, you can create a delicious dinner that pairs well with various sides, making it versatile for any table setting. Whether you’re serving it with quinoa, a fresh salad, or stuffed in pita bread, this dish will impress your family and guests alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 ounces frozen chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté thawed spinach in a bowl with feta cheese, ricotta cheese, green onions, minced garlic, and dill until well mixed.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat and cut pockets into each breast; stuff with the spinach filling.
- Cover skillet and cook on low for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
