Mediterranean Diet Creamy Cheese and Herb Chicken Bake
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this Creamy Cheese and Herb Chicken Bake, a wholesome recipe perfectly aligned with the Mediterranean diet. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are generously stuffed with a luscious blend of softened cream cheese, tangy feta, fragrant fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, as well as vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Finished with a golden, bubbly top, this dish is roasted to perfection in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious weeknight dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a side of hearty whole grains to complete this satisfying, herbaceous meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for those seeking a flavorful, healthy option, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is a showcase of fresh ingredients and creamy decadence.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach, fresh
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, chopped garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Fold the wilted spinach into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
Using a sharp knife, carefully make a slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
Stuff each chicken breast with an even amount of the cheese and herb mixture.
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. If there's any remaining cheese mixture, spread it on top of the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Serve the Mediterranean Diet Creamy Cheese and Herb Chicken Bake warm, with a side of your favorite whole grain or salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2734 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 159.6 g | 205% | |
| Saturated Fat | 76.5 g | 382% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 949 mg | 316% | |
| Sodium | 6125 mg | 266% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.7 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.9 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.1 g | ||
| Protein | 262.3 g | 525% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 920 mg | 71% | |
| Iron | 13.8 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 4307 mg | 92% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
