Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese

Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese
Introduction
Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese is a delicious and comforting meal. This dish features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon bits, and rich Pepper Jack cheese. It’s filling, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or any gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make. It combines healthy spinach and tomatoes with the comforting flavors of bacon and cheese. This means you can enjoy a flavorful meal that feels special without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it is gluten-free and low-carb, making it a fantastic option for those watching their diets.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the Creamed Spinach Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled bacon, cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
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Prepare the Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and create a pocket in each by slicing them horizontally. Be careful not to cut all the way through the chicken.
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Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Stuff each chicken breast with the creamed spinach mixture, filling them generously.
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Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and season with extra salt and pepper if you like.
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Add Pepper Jack Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Pepper Jack cheese evenly over the stuffed chicken breasts.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and turning golden brown.
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Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, creamy chicken dish!
How to Serve Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese
Serve this chicken dish warm. It pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
How to Store Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Breasts with Creamed Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Bacon, and Pepper Jack Cheese
- Make sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked by cutting it in the thickest part. The juices should run clear, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- For extra flavor, try adding different herbs like thyme or basil to the spinach mixture.
- If you don’t like too much spice, you can use regular cheese instead of Pepper Jack.
Variation (If Any)
You can change up the ingredients based on your taste. Swap out the spinach for kale or use mozzarella cheese instead of Pepper Jack. Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it in.
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What can I substitute for cream cheese? You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option.
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Can I cook this in an air fryer? Yes, you can! Cook at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness.
Enjoy making this delightful dish for your family and friends!