Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

I'm always looking for new ways to enjoy Chicken Breasts and today I decided to stuff one with sauteed spinach and goat cheese. Stuffing chicken is always fun because the possibilities are endless. Not a fan of goat cheese? Try some swiss instead! The beauty of this recipe is you also get a side dish of sauteed spinach to go with the chicken!

Spinach & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast: Serves 2

2 Chicken Breasts (approx 10oz each) - boneless / skinless
2oz Goat Cheese
12oz Fresh Spinach - Rinsed & Patted Dry
1/2C Onions - Diced
1tsp Olive Oil
2 Garlic Cloves - Minced
4 Strips Bacon
Salt & Pepper

In a large saute pan heat olive oil over medium heat and add onions and garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes allowing the onions to turn translucent. Add the spinach with some salt and pepper and toss with the onions. Cover with a lid and let the spinach wilt down tossing occasionally. Once wilted set to the side.

Next we need to prepare the chicken breasts. I like to pound the chicken out to a uniform thickness of approximately 1/4". To do this put the chicken between 2 pieces of wax paper and using either a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan gently pound the chicken in the thickest parts to create an even piece of meat. Lightly salt and pepper both sides of the chicken.

Now we are ready to assemble the chicken. In the center of each breast place approximately 1-2TB of spinach with 1oz of goat cheese -make sure to not touch the spinach in the pan with a utensil that has touched the raw chicken. Fold the edges of the chicken over the stuffing and then take a piece of bacon and wrap it around the seam of the breast, then take another piece of bacon and wrap it in the other direction creating a cross. Place the chicken in a greased baking pan with the ends of the bacon facing down. Retain the left over spinach in the pan until you bring the chicken out of the oven, you can then turn the stove back on and reheat the spinach as a side dish.

Bake the chicken at 375° for approximately 30-35 minutes. Depending on the thickness of your chicken will determine the baking time.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes (cover the pan with foil when it comes out of the oven). Then serve with left over spinach and enjoy this creamy healthy and filling meal.

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WW: 11 Points Plus / serving