Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken thighs stuffed with melted cheese and sautéed spinach, finished in a rich cream sauce for a satisfying keto-friendly meal. This mediterranean-inspired chicken (keto, low carb) ready in about 45 minutes blends softened cream cheese, chopped fresh spinach, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Carefully loosen skin of each of the 4 chicken thighs, creating a pocket.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup chopped fresh spinach, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Stuff each chicken thigh pocket evenly with the cream cheese and spinach mixture, then secure the skin back over the filling.
  4. Step 4: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the outside of chicken thighs with remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sear chicken thighs skin side down for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
  5. Step 5: Flip chicken thighs and pour 1/2 cup heavy cream around them. Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the tops.
  6. Step 6: Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Step 7: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Cream Sauce keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low carb, gluten free, high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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