Greek Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a savory filling of creamy feta cheese, kalamata olives, spinach, and herbs. The stuffing brings the bright, tangy flavors of Greece right into your kitchen, making each bite a perfect balance of salty, savory, and fresh. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and veggies, making it a great choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
I first made Greek Stuffed Chicken when I was craving Mediterranean flavors and wanted to create a dish that felt both comforting and fresh. The combination of feta, olives, and spinach was absolutely perfect, and the chicken itself stayed juicy and tender. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare yet feels so special and full of vibrant flavors.
What’s great about Greek Stuffed Chicken is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a Greek salad to complete the meal. It’s also easy to make in advance, so it’s great for meal prepping or entertaining guests. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Dinner parties
- Mediterranean food lovers
- Meal prep
- Special occasions
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Greek Stuffed Chicken will become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire:
- Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of feta, spinach, and olives offers a burst of savory, fresh flavor in every bite.
- Tender and Juicy Chicken: The stuffing keeps the chicken moist and flavorful while baking.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is a nutritious option for a satisfying meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- Customizable Filling: Add your favorite herbs, nuts, or even a bit of sun-dried tomatoes to tailor the stuffing to your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Stuffed chicken breasts look elegant and are sure to impress guests.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with a side of vegetables or a light salad for a low-carb, satisfying meal.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or family gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 22g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup black olives, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Ingredient Highlights
- Feta Cheese: Brings a tangy, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the olives and spinach.
- Olives: Add a briny, savory element that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
- Spinach: Adds a nutritious and slightly earthy note, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor to the stuffing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being sure not to slice all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
Make the Stuffing:
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Combine Stuffing Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, feta, olives, parsley, and basil. Stir until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken:
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Spoon the stuffing mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast, pressing gently to fill the cavity. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for added zest.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Greek Stuffed Chicken:
- With a Greek Salad: Serve alongside a refreshing Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a colorful and nutritious side.
- On a Bed of Rice: Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice pilaf for a more filling option.
- With Tzatziki Sauce: Pair with a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
- In a Pita: Slice the chicken and serve in pita bread with fresh veggies for a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.
- With Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus complements the chicken’s flavors perfectly.
- As a Meal Prep Option: Make extra and pack it with your favorite side for an easy lunch or dinner.
- With Grilled Potatoes: Grilled potatoes with herbs make a hearty, flavorful side for this dish.
- With Hummus and Pita Chips: Serve with hummus and crispy pita chips for an appetizer or snack.
- As an Appetizer: Cut into smaller pieces and serve as a Mediterranean appetizer with olives and cheese.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overstuff the Chicken: Be sure to stuff the chicken breasts generously, but don’t overfill them to avoid the stuffing spilling out while baking.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best in the stuffing for its flavor and texture.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid undercooking.
- Allow Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the chicken moist.
- Stuffing Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, or artichokes to the stuffing for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken: Add chopped artichoke hearts to the stuffing for a twist on the classic.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the stuffing for a tangy, Mediterranean flavor.
- Olive Tapenade Chicken: Use an olive tapenade instead of whole olives for a more intense olive flavor.
- Chicken with Pesto Stuffing: Replace the olive oil with pesto for a basil-forward flavor.
- Zucchini Stuffed Chicken: Add finely chopped zucchini to the stuffing mixture for an added vegetable boost.
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or tempeh in place of chicken for a plant-based version of this dish.
Special Equipment
- Sharp Knife: To carefully cut the pockets in the chicken breasts.
- Ovenproof Skillet: For searing and baking the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken for perfect doneness.
- Toothpicks: To secure the chicken pockets while baking.
- Basting Spoon: For spooning the stuffing into the chicken breasts.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works as long as it is thoroughly thawed and drained of excess water. - How long does this chicken last in the fridge?
The chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. - Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, freeze the stuffed chicken before cooking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. - What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Use goat cheese or ricotta cheese for a different flavor and texture. - Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling the chicken over medium heat works great and adds a smoky flavor. - What should I serve with this dish?
Serve with a side of vegetables, rice, or a salad for a balanced meal. - Can I make this recipe without olives?
Absolutely! You can skip the olives or substitute with capers or another briny ingredient. - Can I stuff the chicken with other ingredients?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables, cheeses, or herbs in the stuffing. - How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Greek Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of Mediterranean ingredients. With its juicy chicken, savory stuffing, and fresh herbs, this recipe brings bold, vibrant flavors to your table. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Simple to make yet elegant, Greek Stuffed Chicken will become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your home!