If you are looking to wow your family and friends with a dish that combines juicy chicken, melty cheese, fresh spinach, and a decadent cream sauce, then this Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures that come together effortlessly, making it a standout meal whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The grilled chicken pockets filled with a savory spinach and cheese mixture melt in your mouth, and the luscious cream sauce ties every bite together in the most comforting way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this recipe is straightforward and rewarding because each ingredient plays a vital role. From the fresh spinach adding vibrant color and nutrition to the creamy cheeses that bring richness, every item is essential to crafting a perfectly balanced dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The canvas for stuffing, perfectly lean and easy to grill.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a gentle garlic aroma that complements both chicken and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully inside the chicken for gooey indulgence.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings a sharp, salty punch to the stuffing and sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides fresh aromatic bursts within the filling.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional): Lends a fragrant, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon butter: The base for an indulgent, creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Thickens the cream sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient for a rich, velvety sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce): Enriches the cream sauce with a delicious umami note.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce): Continues the subtle garlic theme throughout the dish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds fresh color and a slight herbal brightness.
How to Make Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat to ensure even cooking. Next, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through — this is where all the delicious stuffing will go.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
In a bowl, combine the chopped fresh spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and fresh basil if you’re using it. This blend of cheese and greens strikes a brilliant balance between creamy and refreshing flavors.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Gently stuff each chicken pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Use toothpicks to secure the opening so the filling stays put while grilling.
Step 4: Season and Prepare to Grill
Brush each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These layers of seasoning will seep into the meat as it grills, enriching every bite.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the stuffed chicken breasts on your preheated grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling, then carefully remove the toothpicks.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Sauce
While the chicken rests, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for one minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and chicken broth until smooth, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
Step 7: Finish the Sauce and Serve
Stir grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until creamy and smooth. Spoon this heavenly cream sauce over your grilled stuffed chicken and enjoy every decadent bite.
How to Serve Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple, vibrant garnish that not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle herbal freshness to contrast the richness of the cream sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan can add an extra savory touch just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving with buttery garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess with texture and freshness. Each side offers a complementary flavor profile to elevate the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, slice the grilled stuffed chicken into medallions and arrange them in a fan shape, drizzling the cream sauce artistically on the plate. Alternatively, serve the chicken whole on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside colorful roasted vegetables to make the presentation as inviting as the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover grilled stuffed chicken with cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy reheated dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled stuffed chicken before adding the cream sauce. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen chicken breasts can keep fresh flavors for up to 3 months. Keep the cream sauce separate and fresh it when you are ready to eat.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to keep it juicy and tender. Reheat the cream sauce slowly on the stove while stirring to maintain its smooth texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the chicken or breaking the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for stuffing the chicken?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for melt and flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even feta for a unique twist that suits your taste.
Is it necessary to use fresh spinach, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach works best for stuffing because it retains texture and color after cooking, but if you only have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with the cheeses.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Can I make the cream sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use dairy-free butter and Parmesan substitutes to create a similar sauce that’s friendly for dairy-intolerant diets.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this stuffed chicken another way?
Definitely. You can bake the stuffed chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked, or pan-sear it followed by oven finishing to achieve a beautiful crust and juicy interior.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe, it will quickly become one of your trusted go-to dishes for impressing guests or enjoying a satisfying meal with family. The harmony of flavors and textures is truly unforgettable, and the recipe’s approachable steps make it a joy to prepare. So grab your ingredients, fire up that grill, and get ready to share a dish that’s both comforting and elegant all at once.
PrintGrilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Grilled Stuffed Chicken with Cream Sauce recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful blend of spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. The dish is complemented by a rich and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, making it a comforting and elegant main course perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Stuffed Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut through completely.
- Make the Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and fresh basil if using, mixing well.
- Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening and keep the stuffing inside during grilling.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before taking out the toothpicks.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: While the chicken rests, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Plate the grilled stuffed chicken breasts and generously drizzle with the warm cream sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut completely through the chicken breasts when making the pockets to prevent stuffing from spilling out during grilling.
- To keep the stuffing secure while grilling, toothpicks are essential; remember to remove them before serving.
- You can substitute fresh basil with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.