Ingredients:

  • 6 (6 oz / 170g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
  • 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (5g) paprika
  • ½ tsp (3g) sea salt
  • ½ tsp (3g) black pepper
  • 1 cup (225g) cottage cheese
  • 2 cups (60g) fresh baby spinach, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove (5g) garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp (1g) crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

  1. Combine cottage cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir vigorously until the mixture is a consistent, creamy green.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Note: Dry meat browns better.
  3. Slice horizontally into the thickest part of each breast to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
  4. Rub the exterior of each breast with olive oil.
  5. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the oil.
  6. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the cottage cheese mixture into each pocket. Press it down firmly until no large air gaps remain.
  7. Place the stuffed breasts in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.