Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Introduction
Broccoli and Cheese Perfection
There’s something magical about a piece of chicken breast stuffed with flavors that burst in your mouth. The broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast recipe is nothing short of a flavorful masterpiece, combining the savory richness of melted cheese, the fresh crunch of broccoli, and the tender juiciness of chicken. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a quick and impressive meal to wow your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Fresh Ingredients for a Gourmet Experience
– Chicken breasts: Large and boneless
– Broccoli: Finely chopped, about ¾ cup
– Cream cheese: Softened, around ½ cup
– Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
– Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: 1 cup
– Salt: To season
– Pepper: To season
– Olive oil or butter: For cooking
Prep Time
Get Everything Ready
The brilliance of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Preparing the ingredients won’t take too long. Expect the prep work to be completed in approximately 15 minutes. That includes shredding cheese, chopping broccoli, and mixing everything together to create the delicious filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Perfect Cooking for a Delicious Meal
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breast
Total Time: Around 40-45 minutes (including prepping and cooking time)
Yield: Serves 4 people
Final Thoughts
This broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast recipe is an absolute delight for anyone who loves comfort food that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, and you’ve got yourself a complete meal that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a go-to meal that everyone raves about!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
– Season the chicken on both sides and inside the pocket with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Make the Filling
– Steam or lightly cook the broccoli florets until slightly tender, then chop them finely.
– In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until well mixed.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
– Fill the pocket of each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese mixture, making sure not to overfill.
– Secure the opening with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
– Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
– Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
– Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
– Remove the skillet from the oven once cooked and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
General Cooking Tip
– Make sure the filling is evenly distributed and avoid overstuffing the chicken to prevent spillage during cooking.
Alternative Cheese Options
– If you prefer, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or any other melty cheese in place of cheddar cheese for the filling.
To Make it Keto-Friendly
– Use full-fat cream cheese and avoid any additional sauces or sides that may contain hidden carbs.
Reheating Instructions
– Reheat leftovers in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to maintain the texture and flavor of the chicken. Avoid microwaving as it may make the chicken rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or light mashed cauliflower for a satisfying meal.
Cook Techniques
Searing the Chicken Breast
Searing the chicken breast first is crucial for locking in the moisture and giving the chicken a beautiful golden crust before baking.
Creating the Pockets for Stuffing
Use a sharp knife to gently cut pockets into the chicken breasts, ensuring they are deep enough to hold the broccoli and cheese filling but not cutting through the other side.
Preparing the Broccoli and Cheese Filling
Steam or blanch the broccoli slightly to soften it before mixing with shredded cheese and other spices for an evenly combined stuffing.
Secure the Stuffing
After filling the chicken breasts, use toothpicks to hold the edges of the chicken together and keep the stuffing securely inside.
Baking the Chicken
Bake the stuffed chicken breasts in an oven preheated to the recommended temperature to ensure they are cooked through while keeping the meat juicy.
Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure the chicken is safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
FAQ
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out of the chicken?
Make sure to secure the opening of the stuffed chicken breasts with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
Can I use frozen broccoli for the stuffing?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it first, then drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheese.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Shredded cheddar cheese is ideal, but you can also use mozzarella or a mix of cheeses based on your preference.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What sides go well with broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast?
The dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, you can grill the stuffed chicken breasts, but be cautious as the stuffing might leak out. Use medium heat and cook until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion
Broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast is a delightful combination of tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and the wholesome taste of fresh broccoli. This dish is perfect for those looking for a fulfilling and tasty meal that is easy to prepare yet perfect for impressing your guests or family. Whether you are planning a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is versatile and bound to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
For a lighter yet flavorful filling, try combining spinach and crumbled feta cheese to stuff the chicken breast. This option is perfect for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Cheddar and Bacon Stuffed Chicken
Mix sharp cheddar cheese with crispy bacon to bring a smoky, cheesy twist to your chicken stuffing. This classic combination is sure to be a family favorite.
Mushroom and Swiss Stuffed Chicken
Sauté some mushrooms and combine them with Swiss cheese for an earthy and creamy filling. This will create a deliciously decadent dish.
Ricotta and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Blend creamy ricotta cheese with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and vibrant texture in your stuffed chicken breast.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed with Blue Cheese
Combine shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce with blue cheese crumbles to make a tangy, spicy stuffing that’s perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
Spread some basil pesto and layer fresh mozzarella for a herbaceous and cheesy variation. This is perfect for recreating an Italian-style chicken dish.