Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: While the oven is heating up, prepare the chicken breasts. Take each chicken breast and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly each chicken breast. To do this, slice horizontally into the thickest part of the breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through, so it opens like a book. This will create a pocket for the filling.
Step 3: Season the inside of each chicken breast with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the stuffing.
Step 4: Next, prepare the spinach and feta filling. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 5: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts down. You want the spinach to retain its vibrant green color and not overcook.
Step 6: Once the spinach is wilted, remove the skillet from the heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with the crumbled feta cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 7: Carefully spoon the spinach and feta mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use your fingers to press the filling in gently, ensuring it is packed but not overflowing. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside while cooking.
Step 8: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish. If desired, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top and sprinkle more salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously over the stuffed chicken breasts. This will add a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 10: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
Step 11: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.
Step 12: Serve the savory spinach and feta stuffed chicken warm, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and packed with flavor!
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