This bacon-wrapped chicken with spinach and cream cheese is a delicious and savory dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken fillets, creamy spinach filling, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience perfect for dinner or special occasions.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 2 chicken fillets
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for seasoning)
- Spinach (about 1 cup of fresh spinach or 1/2 cup of cooked spinach)
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese
- Bacon (enough to wrap around the chicken fillets, about 4-6 slices depending on the size)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. -
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken fillets with paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides for a flavorful base. -
Prepare the Spinach and Cream Cheese Filling:
If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then chop it finely. Combine the cooked spinach with the cream cheese in a bowl. Mix until the spinach is fully incorporated into the cream cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. -
Stuff the Chicken:
Cut a pocket into the side of each chicken fillet. Stuff the chicken with the spinach and cream cheese mixture, ensuring it’s well filled. -
Wrap with Bacon:
Wrap each stuffed chicken fillet with bacon slices, securing them with toothpicks if necessary to ensure they stay wrapped during cooking. -
Cook the Chicken:
Place the wrapped chicken fillets in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). The bacon should be crispy and golden. -
Serve:
Once cooked, remove the toothpicks (if used) and serve the bacon-wrapped chicken hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 chicken fillet
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 8%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 10%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Bacon-wrapped chicken is a popular dish in many Western cuisines, loved for its combination of juicy chicken, savory bacon, and creamy fillings. The addition of spinach and cream cheese gives this dish an extra richness and depth of flavor, making it a favorite for home cooks and restaurant menus alike. It’s easy to make and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it versatile for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Flavorful and Filling: The cream cheese filling and bacon add richness and flavor to the chicken, making it a satisfying meal.
- Simple to Make: This recipe is easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and basic cooking techniques.
- Customizable: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or herbs to the cream cheese filling for added flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: The bacon wraps the chicken in a crispy, flavorful shell that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.
- Good Fats: The bacon and cream cheese add healthy fats, which can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a light salad, such as a mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower for a complete meal.
- With Rice or Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavors of the bacon and cream cheese.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Using thicker slices of bacon will give the dish a more substantial texture and flavor.
- Sauté the Spinach: If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it first to remove excess moisture and prevent the filling from becoming watery.
Variations to Try
- Add Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and cream cheese mixture for a savory umami flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the spinach filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Try substituting cream cheese with goat cheese, feta, or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This bacon-wrapped chicken with spinach and cream cheese is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, creamy spinach filling, and crispy bacon makes for a satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
10 Comprehensive FAQs
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Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster. -
Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon for a lighter version, or use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving. -
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water. -
Can I use a different cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with other cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor. -
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the spinach filling for a spicy twist. -
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken fillets?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe for a juicier and more flavorful option. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. -
Can I bake this in a casserole dish instead of on a baking sheet?
Yes, you can arrange the bacon-wrapped chicken in a casserole dish instead of on a baking sheet. -
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the cream cheese and bacon are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if you have gluten sensitivities.
Enjoy your bacon-wrapped chicken with spinach and cream cheese!