Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta – A Special Chef’s Secret Recipe
This Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta is a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday dinner. With tender, juicy chicken enveloping a creamy, savory filling of feta, cream cheese, and spinach, this dish delivers big flavors while remaining simple to prepare.
What makes this recipe extra special? The chef’s secret twist: lemon zest and fresh herbs added to the stuffing, giving the dish a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. Plus, seasoning under the skin ensures maximum flavor infusion while keeping the meat moist and tender.
This dish is easy to make, yet elegant enough for Easter, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table. Let’s dive in!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 6-8 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Loosen the Skin Gently – Use your fingers or a spoon to separate the skin from the meat without tearing it. This helps the stuffing stay inside while cooking.
- Sauté the Spinach First – Cooking the spinach before mixing it with cheese prevents excess moisture from making the stuffing too watery.
- Let the Chicken Rest – Allowing the chicken to rest for 10 minutes after roasting locks in the juices and ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – The best way to ensure a perfectly cooked chicken is to roast until the thickest part of the chicken (thigh) reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For Extra Crispy Skin – Baste the chicken twice during roasting and broil for the last 5 minutes for a crispy, golden finish.
🍳 Tools Required
- Roasting pan
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet (for sautéing spinach)
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)
- Knife & cutting board
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Goat cheese | Feta cheese | A tangier, creamier filling |
| Ricotta cheese | Cream cheese | A lighter, fluffier stuffing |
| Fresh basil | Parsley | A slightly sweet, herbaceous twist |
| Smoked paprika | Regular paprika | Adds a smoky depth to the seasoning |
| Lemon juice | Lemon zest | A stronger citrus flavor in the stuffing |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the stuffing ahead – Mix the spinach, cheeses, and herbs and store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before using.
- Season the chicken in advance – For deeper flavor, rub the seasoning under and over the skin and refrigerate overnight.
- Store leftovers properly – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Stuffed Easter Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in 2 cups chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Feta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
✔ Sautéed spinach
✔ 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
✔ 1 cup softened cream cheese
✔ 1 teaspoon lemon zest
✔ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
✔ Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Using your hands or a spoon, carefully loosen the skin of the chicken, creating a pocket for the filling.
Spoon the spinach-feta mixture under the skin and inside the cavity of the chicken.
Step 5: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together:
✔ 1 tablespoon paprika
✔ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
✔ Salt and pepper, to taste
Rub this seasoning mix all over the outside of the chicken for a flavorful crust.
Step 6: Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
Roast uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes, basting with pan juices twice during cooking.
Tip: If the skin is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), remove the chicken from the oven.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Serve warm with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a side salad.
Enjoy your savory, cheesy, and perfectly roasted stuffed Easter chicken! 🍗🌿✨
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Easter Chicken
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Roasted Potatoes | Crispy, buttery potatoes pair perfectly with juicy chicken. |
| Honey-Glazed Carrots | A sweet, caramelized contrast to the savory flavors. |
| Lemon Herb Rice | A light, fragrant side dish that enhances the citrus notes. |
| Crisp Green Salad | A refreshing complement with a tangy vinaigrette. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months.
Ideas for Leftover Chicken:
✔ Chicken Wraps – Shred the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with veggies.
✔ Chicken Pasta – Toss into pasta with a garlic butter sauce.
✔ Stuffed Chicken Sandwich – Serve in a crusty roll with tzatziki or aioli.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – Keeps you full and supports muscle health.
- Rich in Calcium – Thanks to the feta and cream cheese filling.
- Packed with Vitamins – Spinach provides iron, folate, and antioxidants.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Chardonnay or Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water 🍷🍋
Why? The buttery, crisp Chardonnay balances the savory richness of the stuffing, while sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast.
❤️ Enjoy!
This Stuffed Easter Chicken with Spinach and Feta is rich, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether for Easter dinner or a special family meal, it’s guaranteed to impress and delight!
Try it out and let me know how it turned out! 🍗✨🔥
