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Creamy stuffed chicken served with spinach rigatoni on a plate

Creamy Stuffed Chicken with Creamy Spinach Rigatoni

A comforting yet elegant dish featuring succulent chicken breasts stuffed with creamy spinach and paired with rich rigatoni in a decadent sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffed Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
For the Creamy Spinach Rigatoni
  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
  3. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Fill each pocket with the creamy spinach mixture, being careful not to overstuff. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Cooking
  1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  2. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for around 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  3. While the chicken is baking, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cooked rigatoni to the creamy spinach sauce, tossing to coat. Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and serve atop a generous portion of creamy rigatoni.

Notes

For added flavor, incorporate sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers into the filling or sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.