Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner, Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, flavorful broccoli and cheese filling. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish that’s both comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for busy evenings when you want something hearty and healthy.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken, making sure to coat it completely.

3. Make the Filling
In another bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined.

4. Stuff the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a wide pocket into each chicken breast. Be cautious not to cut all the way through. Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese filling, ensuring it’s packed inside.

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 heated, sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side for 2-3 minutes, just until they’re lightly browned. This step helps lock in the flavors but doesn’t fully cook the chicken. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.

6. Bake the Chicken
Once all chicken breasts are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese filling should be melted and bubbling inside the chicken.

7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the stuffed chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before slicing into them. Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal. A side of rice or quinoa also complements the flavors of the chicken.
• Sauce Options: If you like extra sauce, consider drizzling a bit of extra cheese sauce or a creamy garlic sauce over the chicken for an added richness.
• Garnish: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional grated cheese on top to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat the leftovers, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quicker option.

These tips ensure that your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast stays flavorful and delicious, whether you’re serving it immediately or enjoying leftovers!

Variations

1. Spinach and Artichoke Stuffing
For a creamy twist, substitute the broccoli with spinach and chopped artichokes. Mix the spinach with the cream cheese and shredded cheese for a rich, decadent filling. This variation brings in the familiar flavors of spinach and artichoke dip, making it a great option for an appetizer-inspired dish.

2. Bacon and Cheddar Stuffing
Add crispy bacon to the filling for extra flavor. Chop up a few slices of cooked bacon and mix them with the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and broccoli. The smoky bacon complements the richness of the cheese and the freshness of the broccoli for an irresistible combination.

3. Mushroom and Swiss Stuffing
If you’re a fan of mushrooms, try replacing the broccoli with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the mild Swiss cheese for a gourmet touch. You can sauté the mushrooms in a bit of butter or olive oil with garlic for added depth of flavor.

4. Southwestern Stuffing
For a spicy variation, use a blend of black beans, corn, and diced green chilies mixed with cheese as the stuffing. Add some cumin and chili powder to the filling for a Southwestern kick. This variation pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a salsa topping for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffing
For a fresh, herbaceous variation, swap the broccoli for basil pesto and shredded mozzarella. The pesto adds a burst of vibrant flavor, while the mozzarella melts beautifully inside the chicken. This variation is perfect for anyone who loves Italian flavors.

6. Cauliflower and Feta Stuffing
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, substitute broccoli with cauliflower and feta cheese. Cauliflower has a milder flavor, and the tangy feta provides a nice contrast to the creamy cream cheese filling. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for an extra pop of freshness.

7. Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Stuffing
For a more Mediterranean twist, try filling the chicken with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and creamy goat cheese. The richness of the goat cheese balances the tangy, sweet sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful flavor combination.

8. Zucchini and Parmesan Stuffing
If you want to incorporate more vegetables, zucchini is an excellent choice. Mix grated zucchini with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a bit of olive oil for a fresh and flavorful stuffing. Zucchini adds moisture to the dish while still keeping the chicken tender.

9. Broccoli and Blue Cheese Stuffing
For those who love bold flavors, consider swapping the cheddar for blue cheese in the filling. Broccoli and blue cheese make an intriguing pairing that will satisfy cheese lovers. The pungency of blue cheese works wonderfully with the mildness of broccoli.

10. Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Stuffing
For a heartier option, stuff the chicken with cooked Italian sausage and shredded mozzarella. This savory combination is filling and flavorful, perfect for those craving a more substantial meal.

These variations provide endless possibilities for customizing your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, allowing you to cater to different tastes and preferences. Experiment with different fillings and seasonings to create your perfect stuffed chicken!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the filling. Fresh broccoli, however, will yield a better texture and flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss. For a stronger flavor, try using blue cheese or gouda.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time. Assemble the chicken and stuff it, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to cook.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for the filling?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or gluten-free flour in the filling. Be sure to double-check the other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

5. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They are slightly more flavorful and tender but may require a different cooking time, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

6. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for the oven, you can try cooking the stuffed chicken breasts in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. However, the searing step will not be possible, and the texture of the chicken may differ from oven baking.

7. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
To prevent dry chicken, make sure you sear the chicken breasts on each side before baking. This locks in moisture. Also, bake the chicken at the recommended temperature and avoid overcooking.

8. Can I use cream cheese from a tub instead of block cream cheese?
It’s best to use block cream cheese for this recipe, as it has a firmer texture that works better in the filling. Cream cheese from a tub may be too soft and can cause the filling to be too runny.

9. Can I stuff the chicken breasts with other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peppers. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté any watery vegetables to remove excess moisture before adding them to the stuffing.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce into the stuffing. Adjust the level of heat to your preference for a customized spicy flavor.

These FAQs will help guide you through making the Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast and offer solutions to common concerns.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a perfect meal for those looking for a flavorful, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. With tender chicken, a creamy filling of broccoli and cheese, and a simple seasoning blend, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic combination of flavors. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this dish is so loved!

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