Stuffed Chicken Breast – Easy 40-Minute Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Breast with creamy spinach and a cranberry-rosemary glaze is your next must-make holiday recipe. Imagine slicing into a juicy, golden-seared chicken breast to find warm, garlicky spinach and melty cheese inside. Then, as a glossy cranberry glaze drizzles down the sides, you know this isn’t your average chicken dinner—it’s a showstopper.

Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy centerpiece for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even a cozy weeknight meal. The balance of savory, creamy, and sweet-tart flavors hits every note beautifully.

Whether you’re looking for the best spinach stuffed chicken breast, a holiday chicken recipe with cranberries, or just an easy stuffed chicken dinner idea, this recipe will absolutely win you over. It’s festive, flavorful, and full of seasonal joy.

Top Reasons This Stuffed Chicken Breast Is a Keeper

• Juicy chicken breast with a tender, golden crust
• Creamy spinach and melted cheese in every bite
• Cranberry rosemary glaze adds the perfect festive touch
• Easy to make in just 40 minutes
• Great for holiday dinners or special date nights
• Restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients
• Naturally low in carbs and high in protein
• Works with mozzarella or cream cheese — your choice!
• Stunning presentation for Christmas or Thanksgiving
• Can be prepped ahead for entertaining
• Flexible recipe with gluten-free and dairy-free options

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What You’ll Need to Make Stuffed Chicken Breast

Main Ingredients:

Chicken breasts, large and boneless – 2
Fresh spinach – 3 cups
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Butter – 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Cream cheese (softened) – ½ cup
—or—
Mozzarella cheese (shredded) – ½ cup
Salt and black pepper – to taste
Fresh cranberries – 1 cup
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Chicken broth – ¼ cup
Fresh rosemary – 1 sprig
Balsamic vinegar – 1 tablespoon

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions:

• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese or omit cheese entirely and replace with hummus or mashed avocado.
• Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free as written.
• Spicy variation: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the spinach mixture.
• Keto-friendly: Use sugar-free honey substitute or reduce cranberry glaze portion.
• Extra rich: Add a tablespoon of Parmesan to the spinach filling.
• Holiday boost: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest into the glaze.

Let’s Make It! Step-by-Step Guide to Stuffed Chicken Breast

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken for Stuffing

Slice a deep horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through—leave about ½ inch around the edges to hold in the filling.

Step 2 – Make the Creamy Spinach Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in softened cream cheese or shredded mozzarella until smooth. Season lightly and let cool.

Step 3 – Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Divide the spinach filling between the chicken breasts, pressing it deep into the pocket. Use toothpicks to secure if needed.

Step 4 – Sear to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. The cheese will begin melting deliciously inside.

Step 5 – Make the Cranberry Rosemary Glaze

In the same pan, add cranberries, honey, rosemary sprig, balsamic vinegar, and chicken broth. Simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.

Step 6 – Simmer and Finish Cooking

Spoon the cranberry glaze over the chicken. Cover and simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F internal temp), about 10–12 minutes.

Step 7 – Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with extra glaze spooned over the top. Remove toothpicks before plating. Garnish with a rosemary sprig or orange zest if desired.

Tips to Elevate Your Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Use large, thick chicken breasts for easier stuffing.
• Let the spinach filling cool slightly before stuffing.
• Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything secure.
• Don’t overstuff — the chicken should close easily.
• Sear at medium-high for a golden crust without overcooking.
• Deglaze with chicken broth to keep flavors rich.
• Simmer gently after adding glaze — don’t boil.
• Make the glaze thicker by reducing it longer.
• Taste and adjust honey for sweetness if cranberries are very tart.
• For meal prep, make the stuffing and glaze a day ahead.
• Use fresh rosemary for best aroma.
• Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or herb couscous for a full meal.
• Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with whole cranberries or herbs for a festive look.

Flavor Variations & Dietary Swaps

Healthy Version: Use light cream cheese, less honey, and a non-stick pan with minimal oil.
Kid-Friendly: Skip the cranberry glaze or replace it with mild apple compote.
Budget-Friendly: Use frozen spinach and skip fresh rosemary.
High-Protein: Add cooked quinoa to the spinach filling.
Spicy: Stir in chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Holiday-Only: Add cinnamon or cloves to glaze for warming spice.
Vegan Option: Use thick tofu slabs stuffed with spinach and dairy-free cheese.
Air Fryer Alternative: Cook stuffed breasts at 375°F for 20–22 minutes, turning halfway.

Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

• Pair with creamy Parmesan mashed potatoes or roasted garlic cauliflower mash
• Serve alongside herbed couscous or wild rice pilaf
• Complement with sautéed green beans or garlicky spinach
• Make it a gourmet meal with creamy mushroom risotto
• Add crusty bread to soak up the glaze
• Try it with our [holiday cranberry sauce upgrade] or [balsamic-glazed carrots]
• Great with a glass of pinot noir or sparkling cranberry mocktail

Calories & Nutrition Details

Per Serving (1 stuffed breast with glaze):

Calories: 510
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fat: 31g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in microwave for 2–3 minutes. Avoid overheating to preserve filling texture.
Meal prep tip: Cook and portion with side dishes for grab-and-go lunches.

FAQs About This Stuffed Chicken Breast

✅ 1. What is the best way to stuff a chicken breast without it falling apart?

To stuff a chicken breast securely, slice a deep pocket horizontally without cutting through. Fill it with the spinach mixture, then seal with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Searing seam-side down first helps keep the stuffing intact while locking in moisture and flavor.

✅ 2. Can I use frozen spinach for stuffed chicken breast?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach in stuffed chicken breast recipes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean towel before mixing it with cheese. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and helps the flavors stay concentrated.

✅ 3. How long should I cook stuffed chicken breast and at what temperature?

Stuffed chicken breast should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). On the stovetop, this takes about 10–12 minutes after searing. If baking, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

✅ 4. What sauce pairs well with spinach stuffed chicken breast?

A cranberry rosemary glaze works beautifully with spinach stuffed chicken breast. The sweet-tart flavor balances the creamy, savory filling. You can also try a balsamic reduction, lemon butter sauce, or garlic cream sauce for different flavor profiles.

✅ 5. Is stuffed chicken breast a good recipe for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas?

Absolutely! Stuffed chicken breast with spinach and cranberries is a festive, elegant alternative to traditional turkey. It’s quicker to prepare, visually impressive, and full of seasonal flavors—perfect for smaller holiday gatherings or special family dinners.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Try our Amish Hamburger Steak Bake – Comfort Food Dinner Idea
• Don’t miss this Chicken Sausage Orzo
• For another showstopper, see our One-Pan Creamy Meat and Potato Skillet
• Need an appetizer? Our Ritz Crackers Party Snacks  are amazing
• Looking for more cozy dinner recipes? See our Hamburger Steak and Gravy 

Wrapping Up This Stuffed Chicken Breast

This stuffed chicken breast recipe brings festive flavors, creamy textures, and juicy satisfaction—all in just 40 minutes. Whether you’re serving it for Christmas dinner or a cozy December date night, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

📣 What cheese will you use—mozzarella or cream cheese?
🎄 Would you serve this for Christmas or Thanksgiving?
📝 Drop your holiday twist in the comments below—I’d love to hear!

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