Stuffed Thighs
Juicy chicken thighs stuffed with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, perfectly baked to tender perfection—an elegant yet simple dish ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin, debone, and flatten the chicken thighs to an even thickness.
- Combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl, mixing well.
- Ensure the spinach is well drained before adding.
- Spread the cheese mixture onto each thigh, discarding any excess.
- Roll up the thighs and secure with a toothpick or kitchen twine.
- Spray a baking pan with nonstick spray.
- Place the stuffed thighs in the prepared pan and bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like basil and oregano to the cheese mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh spinach with pre-chopped frozen spinach. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy filling. For a different spin, try using crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed thighs pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving with a creamy sauce or drizzling with balsamic glaze for added flavor. They also make a great filling for wraps or sandwiches. For a comforting side, serve alongside Grits With Shrimp & Roasted Red Bell Peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but the oven will help keep the texture more appealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Thighs contains roughly 224 calories, with 17g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. At about 224 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of skin-on?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well for this recipe. Just be sure to flatten them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. The absence of skin will make them a bit leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter to keep them moist during baking.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed thighs a day ahead of time. Once assembled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese that has been blended until smooth, or cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk to achieve a similar texture. Both alternatives will still provide a creamy filling that complements the spinach beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).