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