Stuffed Greek Chicken Breasts

Begin by carefully removing the outer layer of citrus fruit, specifically a lemon, using a sharp blade. Remove any white, fibrous material from the interior of the fruit and slice it into thin layers. Set aside these slices.

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of a fragrant oil, such as olive oil, in an oven-safe cooking vessel over medium heat until it begins to shimmer and release its aroma, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add sliced onions to the pan and cook until they become translucent and release their natural sweetness, about 3-5 minutes. Introduce the grated zest of a lemon and minced garlic into the pan, heating until fragrant for about 1 minute.

Add a handful of fresh spinach leaves to the onion mixture. Stir and cook until heated through, approximately 3 minutes. Transfer the spinach-onion mixture to a separate container and set it aside. Clean the cooking vessel thoroughly and place it back on the stovetop.

Combine crumbled feta cheese and pitted olives with the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

Using a sharp blade, make a shallow incision along the edges of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut too deeply. Create a pocket on the thicker side of each breast by making a lengthwise incision, taking care not to cut through the bottom or opposite edge. Season the pocket with salt and pepper.

Fill each chicken breast with half of the onion and spinach mixture, then close the incision with toothpicks. Lightly dust each breast with flour, salt, and pepper.

Heat 2 tablespoons of the same oil in the cooking vessel over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer, approximately 2 minutes. Place each chicken breast in the hot oil with the rib side facing up. Cook until browned on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Flip the chicken over and place a few of the reserved lemon slices on top.

Place the chicken in a preheated oven and bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius), approximately 35 minutes.