Introduction
If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s both indulgent and healthy, chicken breast stuffed with cheese and spinach wrapped in bacon checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and packed with creamy, savory flavor. This recipe is a favorite among keto dieters, home cooks, and anyone who loves juicy chicken and gooey melted cheese wrapped in crispy bacon.
Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting guests for a cozy gathering, this bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breast will become your go-to dish. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare it step by step, provide nutritional insights, tips for customization, and smart storage solutions.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Stuffed with Cheese and Spinach
✅ High in Protein
✅ Low in Carbs (Keto-Approved)
✅ Delicious and Filling
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep
✅ Easy to Customize with Your Favorite Ingredients
Combining the juicy tenderness of chicken breast, the creamy texture of cheese, and the rich flavor of spinach with the smokiness of crispy bacon, this dish is the definition of satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best cheese and spinach stuffed chicken breast wrapped in bacon, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or frozen and thawed)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs for extra flavor
Pro Tip: Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite and more flavor. Thin slices may crisp up too quickly and break.
How to Prepare Chicken Breast Stuffed with Cheese and Spinach Wrapped in Bacon
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning blend.
Step 3: Make the Cheese and Spinach Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine spinach (lightly sautéed if using fresh), mozzarella or cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Use a spoon to stuff the filling into the chicken breast pockets, dividing the mixture evenly among all four pieces. Press the edges gently to keep the stuffing in place.
Step 5: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon. Secure with toothpicks if needed. The bacon not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.
Step 6: Sear (Optional) and Bake
For extra crispiness, sear the bacon-wrapped chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side. Then transfer to the baking tray and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should be 165°F / 75°C).
Cooking Tip: For crispier bacon, broil the chicken for the last 3–5 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s the approximate nutrition for one serving (1 stuffed chicken breast):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and ideal for keto, paleo, and high-protein diets.
Tips for the Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken
1. Use Room-Temperature Chicken
Let the chicken sit at room temp for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
2. Don’t Overstuff
Too much filling can cause the chicken to burst open during cooking. Aim for just enough to fill the pocket snugly.
3. Add Variety
Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, chopped mushrooms, or jalapeños to the filling for a twist.
4. Air Fryer Option
Cook in the air fryer at 375°F for 20–25 minutes. It crisps the bacon beautifully!
Variations and Add-Ons
🔸 Cheese Options
Swap out mozzarella for Swiss, cheddar, or feta for different textures and tastes.
🔸 Add Veggies
Include finely chopped bell peppers, artichokes, or kale with the spinach for a veggie boost.
🔸 Spice It Up
Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delicious low-carb sides to serve with your cheese and spinach stuffed chicken breast wrapped in bacon:
- Garlic roasted cauliflower
- Zucchini noodles with pesto
- Steamed broccoli with lemon butter
- Cauliflower mash
- Garden salad with vinaigrette
Want something indulgent? Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered rice for a full comfort-food experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
🧊 Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
❄️ Freezing
Wrap uncooked or cooked chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
🍱 Meal Prep Friendly
Cook a batch, slice, and pack into lunch boxes with steamed vegetables for a protein-packed lunch or dinner on the go.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and may be juicier, though harder to stuff.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With only 3g net carbs per serving, this is ideal for keto and low-carb lifestyles.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it fully and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery filling.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Seal the opening with a toothpick and ensure the bacon wraps tightly around the pocket.
Final Thoughts
This chicken breast stuffed with cheese and spinach wrapped in bacon is more than just a recipe — it’s a culinary experience that’s comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious. The creamy cheese and savory spinach inside a juicy chicken breast wrapped in crispy bacon make it a standout main course for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers flavor, nutrition, and versatility in every bite.
