Save Indulge in a restaurant-quality meal at home with these Keto Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Garlic Butter. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy spinach, crispy bacon, and cheese, then baked and drizzled with aromatic garlic butter for a flavorful, low-carb dinner that is sure to impress.
Save This main dish is rated at a medium difficulty and offers an American-style culinary experience. With a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, it is an efficient yet sophisticated option for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken & Filling
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 60 g (2 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 60 g (2 oz) cooked bacon, chopped (about 4 slices)
- 90 g (3 oz) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Garlic Butter
- 60 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- Step 2
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, chopped bacon, spinach, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and evenly combined.
- Step 3
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket horizontally into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Step 4
- Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and bacon mixture, dividing it evenly. Secure openings with toothpicks if needed.
- Step 5
- Place stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 6
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 7
- Brush half of the garlic butter over the chicken breasts.
- Step 8
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is bubbly (internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F).
- Step 9
- Remove from oven, baste with remaining garlic butter, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the chicken remains juicy, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to hit exactly 74°C (165°F). Using toothpicks is highly recommended to keep the creamy filling from spilling out during the baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize the flavor by swapping mozzarella for shredded cheddar or Gruyère. For a bit of extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes into the spinach and bacon filling mixture.
Serviervorschläge
Complete your keto meal by serving these chicken breasts alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile choice for many dietary needs.
Save Each serving of this Keto Spinach and Bacon Stuffed Chicken Breast contains 450 calories, 29g of fat, and 47g of protein, providing a nutritionally balanced and satisfying low-carb experience.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
Use toothpicks to secure the opening after stuffing. You can also place the chicken seam-side down in the baking dish. Avoid overstuffing, and ensure the pocket isn't cut too close to the edges.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking cold.
- → What internal temperature should the chicken reach?
The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to check.
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw frozen spinach completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding to the filling. Use about 70g (2.5 oz) thawed, drained spinach.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles, green salad with keto-friendly dressing, or sautéed broccoli make excellent low-carb accompaniments.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave gently to avoid drying out the chicken.