Spinach and Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe

This savory dish of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs offers a delightful fusion of flavors. Stuffed with a hearty blend of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese, the chicken thighs are then seared to perfection before being baked. This recipe is sure to add an exquisite touch to your dinner table.

spinach and sun dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs recipe

Photos of Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe

The sun-dried tomatoes used in this recipe are usually found in the canned goods aisle of supermarkets, preserved in oil to maintain their flavor. They provide a tangy and sweet flavor to the dish. They are usually sold in jars and can be stored in the refrigerator after opening. Similarly, the spinach can be fresh or frozen, but if you're using fresh, it will need to be wilted down first.

Ingredients for Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs: The base of this dish, chicken thighs are used for their flavorful and juicy meat.

Spinach: This leafy green vegetable adds a wonderful color and is high in nutrients.

Mozzarella cheese: A soft cheese that melts well, providing a creamy texture to the stuffing.

Parmesan cheese: A hard cheese that adds a nice salty flavor to the dish.

Sun-dried tomatoes: These tomatoes have a concentrated flavor that provides a sweet and tangy addition to the stuffing.

Garlic powder: Used for enhancing the flavor of the dish.

Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken thighs before baking.

One reader, Antone Donnelly says:

This spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and the chicken is incredibly juicy. The combination of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes is a match made in heaven. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and satisfying meal.

Antone Donnelly

Techniques Required for Making Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs

How to pound chicken thighs: Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-sized resealable bag and pound with a heavy glass bottle until about ¼-inch in thickness. Pat dry with paper towels.

How to stuff chicken thighs: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture over the chicken thighs, then roll and secure with toothpicks.

How to cook stuffed chicken thighs on the stovetop: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs seam-side down and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned.

How to bake stuffed chicken thighs in the oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

How To Make Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs

A creamy mix of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, and parmesan fill these stuffed chicken thighs, a delicious dish that you can make in just 1 hour!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 31 minutes

Total: 51 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken thighs,skinless, boneless
1½cupsspinach,chopped, frozen, thawed and drained
¼cupmozzarella cheese,reduced fat, finely shredded
2tbspparmesan cheese,grated
2tbspoil packed sun dried tomatoes,drained, chopped
1tspgarlic powder,or to taste
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
1tbspolive oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Microwave the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl for about 5 minutes until defrosted. Drain.
Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-sized resealable bag and pound with a heavy glass bottle until about ¼-inch in thickness. Pat dry with paper towels.
Combine the warm spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix until the cheeses melt.
Spread over the chicken thighs, then roll and secure with toothpicks.
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs seam-side down and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 540.46kcal
Fat: 41.19g
Saturated Fat: 12.57g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.30g
Carbohydrates: 3.25g
Fiber: 0.69g
Sugar: 0.27g
Protein: 37.75g
Cholesterol: 206.76mg
Sodium: 542.83mg
Calcium: 178.53mg
Potassium: 545.35mg
Iron: 1.91mg
Vitamin A: 141.16µg
Vitamin C: 6.67mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs

When pounding the chicken thighs, it's important to do so evenly to ensure uniform thickness. This will not only help the chicken cook evenly but also make it easier to roll and secure with toothpicks. If you don't have a meat mallet, a heavy glass bottle or rolling pin can work just as well. Just be sure to cover the chicken with a layer of plastic wrap first to prevent any splatter and to keep your kitchen clean.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and stuffing for the chicken thighs the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Uniform shape: Pound the chicken thighs to a uniform thickness for even cooking and quicker preparation.

Use kitchen shears: Use kitchen shears to easily remove the bones from the chicken thighs, saving time and effort compared to using a knife.

One-pan cooking: Use an oven-safe skillet for both stovetop browning and oven baking to minimize clean-up time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze the extra stuffed chicken thighs for a quick and convenient meal option in the future.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe

spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale has a similar texture and flavor to spinach, making it a great substitute in this recipe. It also holds up well when cooked, just like spinach.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a mild and slightly tangy flavor, similar to mozzarella. It also melts well, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
sun dried tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers offer a sweet and smoky flavor similar to sun-dried tomatoes. They also provide a vibrant color and a delicious addition to the stuffed chicken thighs.

Presentation Tips for Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the stuffed chicken thighs on the plate, ensuring they are positioned elegantly and artistically.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction: Create a beautiful design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of sophistication and depth of flavor.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables: Accompany the dish with a colorful array of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a visually stunning presentation.
Use edible flowers as a garnish: Add a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies around the plate for a visually stunning and gourmet touch.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes, providing consistent and even heat distribution.
Microwave: A quick and convenient tool for defrosting and reheating ingredients.
Gallon-sized resealable bag: Ideal for marinating and pounding chicken thighs to an even thickness.
Microwave-safe bowl: Designed to withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for heating and defrosting ingredients in the microwave.
Heavy glass bottle: Used for pounding chicken thighs to achieve an even thickness.
Oven-safe skillet: A versatile cookware that can be used on the stovetop and transferred directly to the oven for baking.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Allow the stuffed chicken thighs to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap each stuffed chicken thigh individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal. Then, place the wrapped thighs in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the stuffed chicken thighs for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, place the thawed stuffed chicken thighs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as the chicken may become dry.
For best results, consume the reheated stuffed chicken thighs immediately, as the quality may decline with repeated reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Chicken Thighs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the top of each thigh with a little olive oil to help crisp up the skin. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the stuffed chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per thigh, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, this is a great way to reheat your stuffed chicken thighs while maintaining their crispiness. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the thighs in the basket, making sure they aren't overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken thighs and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through and the skin is crispy. Be sure to cover the skillet with a lid to help the heat distribute evenly and prevent the filling from drying out.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated stuffed chicken thighs, try brushing them with a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, and dried herbs before reheating. This will give them a fresh, aromatic taste and help to revive any flavors that may have been lost during storage.

Interesting Trivia About Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

The spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins. It's a great way to incorporate leafy greens and sun-dried tomatoes into your diet, adding a burst of flavor and texture to the chicken. This recipe is also versatile and can be customized with different types of cheese or additional seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to create a unique and flavorful dish!

Is Making Stuffed Chicken Thighs at Home Cost-Effective?

The spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken thighs, spinach, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, are reasonably priced and readily available. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and budget-friendly option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable and delicious choice. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe Healthy?

This spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, which is high in vitamins A, C, and K, and sun-dried tomatoes, which are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C. Chicken thighs are also a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet. However, the recipe also includes cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium, and the cooking method involves frying the chicken in oil before baking, which adds extra fat and calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use low-fat mozzarella and parmesan cheese to reduce the overall fat content
Replace the sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes to cut down on extra oil
Instead of frying the chicken, try searing it in a non-stick pan with minimal oil or cooking spray, then finish cooking in the oven
Add more vegetables to the stuffing, such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Serve the stuffed chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Stuffed Chicken Thighs Dish

This recipe for spinach and sun-dried tomatoes stuffed chicken thighs is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender chicken thighs are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a burst of Mediterranean-inspired taste in every bite. The dish is easy to prepare and makes for an impressive main course. The use of garlic powder adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the cooking method ensures juicy, succulent chicken. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoyed This Stuffed Chicken Thighs Dish

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: Tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli florets are stir-fried in a savory sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds for a refreshing and guilt-free dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these bacon-wrapped dates. The crispy bacon complements the sweetness of the dates, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The savory filling and tender mushroom caps create a burst of flavor in every bite, making them the perfect start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Berry Tart: Enjoy a flaky, buttery tart crust filled with a luscious vanilla pastry cream and topped with a colorful array of fresh berries. A delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors.

Why trust this Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stuffed Chicken Thighs Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The succulent chicken thighs are stuffed with vibrant spinach, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The use of garlic powder enhances the savory profile, while the olive oil adds a rich, aromatic note. These high-quality ingredients, when expertly combined, result in a dish that promises to tantalize the taste buds and impress even the most discerning palates.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the stuffed chicken thighs?

The stuffed chicken thighs typically take about 20 to 25 minutes to cook in the preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach. Simply sauté the fresh spinach until wilted and then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the stuffing. Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese would all work well in this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when fully cooked.

Can I prepare the stuffed chicken thighs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken thighs in advance and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. Just be sure to remove them from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before cooking.