Description
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
- 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!
Notes
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.
