Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect combination of juicy chicken, cheesy goodness, and tender broccoli. It’s an easy, yet impressive meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for more. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Large skillet or oven-safe pan
- Baking sheet (if using)
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets (cooked and chopped)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or prepare an oven-safe skillet.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and chopped broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each chicken breast lengthwise, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Fill each chicken breast pocket with a generous amount of the broccoli and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the opening, ensuring the filling stays inside while cooking.
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Add Parmesan Cheese:
- If you want an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine, and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Additions: You can enhance the filling by adding other ingredients like chopped bacon, sautéed onions, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Side Dishes: Serve the stuffed chicken with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients with cheesy, savory goodness. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests while being easy enough to make on a busy weeknight!
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect combination of juicy chicken, cheesy goodness, and tender broccoli. It's an easy, yet impressive meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for more. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
- Large skillet or oven-safe pan
- Baking sheet (if using)
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or prepare an oven-safe skillet.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked and chopped broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each chicken breast lengthwise, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Fill each chicken breast pocket with a generous amount of the broccoli and cheese mixture. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the opening, ensuring the filling stays inside while cooking.
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Add Parmesan Cheese:
- If you want an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine, and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Additions: You can enhance the filling by adding other ingredients like chopped bacon, sautéed onions, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
