Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful, hearty, and healthy dinner, look no further than Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy filling that is both satisfying and nutritious. The blend of tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and cream cheese makes each bite incredibly rich and savory, while the seasoning adds a perfect depth of flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is a great way to elevate a typical chicken dinner into something truly special.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 large chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Filling:

• 2 cups chopped broccoli (small pieces)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Dash of salt and pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking the stuffed chicken once it’s ready.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small dish, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat each one evenly. Rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated on both sides. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken and give it a beautiful golden finish as it cooks.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until the filling ingredients are evenly combined and set aside. This filling is what will make your chicken moist, creamy, and full of flavor.

Step 4: Cut and Stuff the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a wide pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold the filling but not so deep that it cuts through the chicken. Stuff each chicken breast generously with the prepared filling, ensuring it’s packed in securely.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them on each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. The goal is to give the chicken a nice crust but not cook it all the way through. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to do this in batches.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

After searing the chicken breasts, place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The filling will melt into the chicken, creating a creamy and flavorful center.

Step 7: Serve

Take the skillet out of the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice the stuffed chicken breasts into pieces, if desired, and serve immediately.

Helpful Tips

Use Fresh Broccoli for Best Flavor

For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Fresh broccoli has a firmer bite and better color, making it ideal for stuffing. Be sure to chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces so it blends well with the other filling ingredients.

Don’t Overstuff the Chicken

When filling the chicken, avoid overstuffing the pockets. While it’s tempting to add extra filling, overstuffing can cause the chicken to tear or the filling to spill out during cooking. A moderate amount of filling ensures the chicken stays intact while baking.

Sear the Chicken Properly

For a beautifully golden-brown crust, be sure to sear the chicken on each side before transferring it to the oven. Searing locks in moisture and adds an extra layer of flavor, so don’t rush this step. Allow the chicken to cook for 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a perfect sear.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste

The seasoning in this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.

Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the chicken moist and tender when you slice it.

Variations for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Add Bacon for Extra Flavor

For an extra savory kick, mix crispy bacon pieces into the filling. The smoky flavor of bacon complements the creamy cheese and broccoli beautifully. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, chop it into small pieces, and stir it into the filling before stuffing the chicken.

Try Different Cheeses

While cheddar is a classic choice, you can easily swap it for other cheeses to suit your taste. For a milder flavor, use mozzarella, or for a sharper taste, try gouda or parmesan. A combination of cheeses adds depth and complexity to the filling.

Make It Spicy

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling. This will give the dish a flavorful, spicy kick that balances the richness of the cheese and creaminess of the broccoli.

Low-Carb Option

To make this dish low-carb, consider replacing the regular chicken breasts with skinless, boneless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are juicier and provide a slightly different texture, perfect for a satisfying, low-carb alternative.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftover Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts in an airtight container. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid condensation. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure the container is tightly sealed to maintain moisture and keep the chicken from drying out. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

These stuffed chicken breasts also freeze well for later use. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Freezing them in portions ensures you can enjoy them at your convenience.

Thawing and Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen chicken, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place the thawed chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re short on time, you can microwave individual pieces, but reheating in the oven helps preserve the chicken’s juiciness and texture.

Avoid Multiple Reheats

For best results, avoid reheating the chicken multiple times, as repeated reheating can cause the chicken to dry out. Try to reheat only the portion you plan to consume at that moment to preserve flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

To complement the creamy richness of the stuffed chicken, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables. Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers work beautifully, offering a balance of sweetness and smokiness that pairs well with the savory chicken. The caramelized edges of roasted vegetables bring out natural flavors and add texture to the meal.

Serve with a Fresh Salad

A light and refreshing salad is the perfect side for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast. Try a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the chicken. Add a few slices of cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for extra crunch and flavor. The freshness of the salad balances the hearty chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

Accompany with Rice or Quinoa

For a more filling option, serve the stuffed chicken with a side of rice or quinoa. These grains are excellent at soaking up any sauce or juices from the chicken. Fluff the rice or quinoa with a bit of olive oil and seasoning to complement the flavors in the chicken.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

If you’re in the mood for something comforting, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make a great addition. The soft, fluffy bread works wonderfully for dipping into the juices or sauce from the stuffed chicken, providing an extra layer of satisfaction.

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Frequently Asked Questions About

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe. In fact, chicken thighs are often more tender and juicy than breasts, making them a great alternative. If you use thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they might take a little longer to cook through. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely!The stuffed chicken breasts can be prepared a day in advance. Simply stuff the chicken, sear it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake as instructed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner for busy evenings.

Can I Freeze the Stuffed Chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well. After preparing and stuffing the chicken, allow it to cool completely. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and bake until fully heated.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

While fresh broccoli provides the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli thoroughly before mixing it into the filling. This helps avoid excess moisture that could affect the stuffing’s consistency.

Conclusion

A Go-To Recipe for Any Occasion

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together rich, savory flavors in every bite. The creamy cheese and broccoli filling complements the tender chicken, making it a perfect meal for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its easy preparation and customizable options, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

A Recipe Worth Repeating

Once you try this dish, it’s likely to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying, nutritious, and comforting choice for any meal!