This pecan encrusted stuffed chicken breasts recipe is a delightful combination of juicy chicken breasts, creamy spinach, and crunchy pecans. The chicken breasts are filled with a flavorful mixture of spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then coated in crushed pecans for a deliciously crispy texture. It's a flavorful and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Using a sharp knife, make a slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Spoon the spinach and cheese filling evenly into each pocket.
- In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped pecans, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a third shallow dish, pour the beaten eggs.
- Coat each stuffed chicken breast evenly with flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the pecan mixture, ensuring the pecans adhere to the chicken.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the pecan coating is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve the pecan encrusted stuffed chicken breasts with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!