Chicken breast packages with spinach and yogurt sauce

Delicious Chicken Breast Packages with Spinach and Yogurt Sauce

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of cooking, where every recipe hides a story and an opportunity to create special moments with loved ones! Today, I invite you to discover how to prepare tasty packages of chicken breast stuffed with spinach and cheese, accompanied by a flavorful yogurt sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for personal adaptations.

A bit of history

Chicken breast packages are a fantastic way to transform a simple ingredient into a feast full of flavor. This technique of stuffing meat with vegetables or cheese has deep roots in cuisines around the world, with each culture adding a touch of its culinary tradition. By cooking this dish, we not only enjoy the taste but also connect with the culinary traditions that inspired it.

Ingredients for chicken packages:

- 300 g fresh spinach (you can also use frozen spinach)
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 200 g cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 onion (medium)
- 2 garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour, for coating
- Breadcrumbs, for a crunchy crust
- Oil for frying

For the side dish:

- Potatoes (for boiled potatoes) or rice (for pilaf)

For the yogurt sauce:

- 300 g yogurt or sour cream (you can choose Greek yogurt for a creamier consistency)
- 1 crushed garlic clove (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons)
- Chopped parsley, dill, or thyme (for flavor)
- Juice from 1/2 lemon (for a touch of freshness)

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach well under cold water. If using frozen spinach, let it thaw before using. Begin by preparing the yogurt sauce by mixing the yogurt with the crushed garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and finely chopped herbs. Cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Preparing the chicken: Cut the chicken breast into thin slices, then gently pound them between two sheets of plastic wrap (or in a ziplock bag) to achieve an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. Sautéing the spinach: In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden. Then, add the spinach and cook for about 5 minutes until it reduces in volume and loses its moisture. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assembling the packages: On each slice of chicken breast, place a portion of spinach followed by a slice of cheese. Fold each chicken slice so that the filling stays well enclosed. You can use a toothpick to secure the packages if necessary. I recommend wrapping each package in plastic wrap and letting them sit in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. This step is not mandatory but helps maintain the shape of the packages during frying.

5. Coating the packages: Prepare three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with breadcrumbs. Dip each package first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs. This layer will create a crunchy and delicious crust.

6. Frying the packages: In a deep pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot enough (you can check by adding a piece of bread – if it sizzles, the oil is ready), add the packages and fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving: The chicken packages are served hot, alongside your chosen side dish: boiled potatoes or rice pilaf. Don’t forget to add the yogurt sauce prepared earlier, which will bring an extra touch of freshness and flavor to each dish.

Practical tips

- Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken breast with lengthwise sliced eggplant or zucchini and grill them before stuffing with spinach and cheese.
- Storage: Chicken packages can be prepared in advance and frozen. Wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze. When you want to prepare them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed as in the recipe.
- Serving suggestions: You can add a fresh vegetable salad for a crunchy and healthy contrast. Also, a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and calcium. Chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for a balanced diet, while yogurt adds important probiotics for gut health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

2. How can I make the yogurt sauce more flavorful?
Add various herbs, such as dill or cumin, and adjust the seasonings to your taste.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or quinoa.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Chicken packages with spinach and yogurt sauce will not disappoint, and your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills. Enjoy every bite and the moments spent at the table!