Treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying meal with this Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy mixture of broccoli and cheese, then baked to perfection. This dish is easy to prepare yet impressive enough for a special dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toothpicks (for securing the chicken)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each chicken breast, filling the pockets evenly.
- Use toothpicks to secure the open edges of the chicken breasts, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breasts with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
How to Prepare
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to please. The key to success is not overstuffing the chicken, so the filling doesn’t spill out during cooking. Searing the chicken first helps lock in the juices and gives it a beautiful golden color. Baking it in the oven ensures the chicken is cooked evenly and stays tender.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40-45 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes, mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda are great alternatives. You can even mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the cheese.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the chicken breasts and filling ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the chicken is cold from the fridge.
- What sides go well with this dish?
- Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad would pair wonderfully with the stuffed chicken.
- Can I grill the stuffed chicken breasts instead of baking them?
- Yes, you can grill the chicken over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Just be careful when flipping to keep the filling intact.