Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta: A Flavorful, Festive Dish for Your Holiday Table

Looking to impress your guests this Easter? Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta is the perfect dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory, flavorful filling. The creamy feta cheese blends beautifully with the earthy spinach, creating a rich stuffing that complements the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing a special meal for your loved ones, this dish will definitely be the highlight of your Easter feast.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional for added texture)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, just until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a separate skillet, sauté the chopped spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, combine the spinach with crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and pine nuts (if using). Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part of the breast. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, pressing the stuffing inside gently. Secure the opening with toothpicks to hold the filling in place.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the dish around the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, make the sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chicken broth, white wine, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove the toothpicks and drizzle the sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, consider pairing it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the flavors.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors. The savory feta and the fresh spinach provide a delicious, creamy filling, while the chicken breast remains tender and juicy from baking in its own juices. The lemony butter sauce adds a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffing. Whether for Easter or any special occasion, this dish feels elegant yet is simple to prepare.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and juicy, and they also hold up well to stuffing. Just make sure to cook them a little longer if needed, depending on their size.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions, and the chicken will still turn out delicious.

3. Can I make this dish without feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use other cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Ricotta will give it a creamy texture, while mozzarella will provide a meltier filling.

4. What can I serve as a side dish with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or even a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. You could also make a rice pilaf for a hearty accompaniment.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?

Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the spinach and feta stuffing for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove any excess moisture.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spinach and feta mixture. Alternatively, you could stuff the chicken with a spicy cheese like pepper jack.

7. Can I make the sauce without wine?

Yes, you can skip the wine and use additional chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar for acidity if you miss the depth of flavor the wine would provide.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to let the chicken cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

9. Can I add a crunchy topping to the chicken?

For an extra crispy texture, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the chicken before baking. You can even mix in a little Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for added flavor.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the feta with dairy-free cheese and using a dairy-free butter substitute in the sauce. There are also vegan feta options available that would work well in the stuffing.