Shelly's Recipe

Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Pockets

Category: Chicken

4 cups fresh baby spinach
2 teaspoons plus 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup garlic-herb spreadable cheese
2/3 cup plus 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (6 ounces each)
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 teaspoon pepper

(1) In a large skillet, saute spinach in 2 teaspoons oil until spinach is wilted. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Remove from the heat. Stir in the spreadable cheese, 2/3 cup bread crumbs and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut a pocket in the thickest part of each chicken breast; fill with spinach mixture. Secure with toothpicks.

(2) Place egg in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, combine the pepper and remaining bread crumbs and salt. Dip chicken in egg, then coat with bread crumb mixture.

(3) In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken in remaining oil for 8-10 minutes on each side or until a thermometer reads 170°. Discard toothpicks before serving. Yield: 4 servings.