Quick & Juicy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Juicy chicken breasts packed with melted cheddar and broccoli create a mouthwatering meal that promises pure comfort.

Cheese lovers will adore this protein-packed dish bursting with flavor and texture.

Each bite delivers a creamy, savory experience that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Home cooks can easily master this recipe with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these stuffed chicken breasts elevate weeknight dinners from ordinary to extraordinary.

The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli brings a delightful balance of richness and nutrition.

Dive into this delectable recipe and watch everyone at the table ask for seconds.

What You’ll Need For Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and versatile protein that serves as the base for this flavorful stuffed dish.

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that adds texture and earthy flavor to the chicken stuffing.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and tangy cheeses that provide rich, melty goodness and depth of flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy base for the stuffing mixture.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall savory profile of the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and filling.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and mild smoky undertone to the chicken.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a golden-brown sear on the chicken breasts.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb used for garnishing the finished dish.
• Toothpicks: Optional tool to secure the stuffing inside the chicken breasts.

Steps To Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) and get ready for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling

• Steamed broccoli
• Cheddar cheese
• Cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend everything until it’s smooth and irresistible.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for extra zest.

Step 4: Form Flavor Pouches

Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Generously stuff each breast with the broccoli cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to seal if needed.

Step 5: Sear to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sizzle the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 6: Add Extra Cheese Goodness

Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top of each chicken breast for maximum cheesy delight.

Step 7: Bake Until Magical

Slide the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese becomes wonderfully melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Pull the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Scatter fresh parsley on top for a beautiful finishing touch before serving.

Helpful Tips For Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Boost flavor by ensuring broccoli is well-drained to prevent soggy filling. Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear. Choose sharp cheddar for more intense cheese flavor and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick. Prevent overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature precisely. For gluten-free option, confirm all seasonings are certified gluten-free and avoid using flour or breadcrumbs during preparation.

Easy Swaps For Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Spicy Southwest Chicken: Replace cheddar with pepper jack cheese, add diced jalapeños and taco seasoning to the filling for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Spinach Chicken: Swap broccoli for chopped spinach, use feta cheese, add sun-dried tomatoes and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Mushroom Swiss Chicken: Substitute cheddar with Swiss cheese, mix in sautéed mushrooms and thyme for an earthy, rich flavor profile.
• Bacon Blue Cheese Chicken: Incorporate crumbled bacon and blue cheese into the filling, sprinkle with chives for an indulgent variation that adds smoky and tangy notes.

What To Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Perfect Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay that complements the rich, cheesy chicken without overpowering its delicate flavors. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the creamy cheese and balances the dish's richness.
• Refreshing Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to contrast the heavy, cheesy chicken. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will cleanse the palate and add a fresh dimension to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetable Medley: Prepare a colorful mix of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots to accompany the stuffed chicken. These caramelized vegetables provide a healthy, textural side that enhances the main dish's savory profile.

How To Store Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen stuffed chicken can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking and maintain moisture.

Common Questions About Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely before chopping and mixing with the cheese filling to prevent excess moisture.

• How do I know if I've created the right pocket in the chicken breast?

Carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken breast, keeping the sides intact. The pocket should be deep enough to hold the filling but not cut completely through the meat.

• What if I don't have an oven-safe skillet?

If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer to a baking dish before adding cheese and placing in the oven. Make sure the baking dish can withstand the oven temperature.

Why Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe Is A Winner

• Savor Nutritious Delights: Packed with protein from chicken and a veggie boost from broccoli, this recipe delivers a powerhouse of nutrition in every bite.
• Master Quick Gourmet Cooking: Impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality dish that looks complicated but comes together with simple steps and minimal ingredients.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Easily swap cheeses or add different herbs to make this recipe uniquely yours, perfect for adapting to personal tastes or dietary preferences.
• Enjoy One-Pan Convenience: From stovetop searing to oven finishing, this recipe minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor with a single skillet technique.

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

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4.7 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Succulent chicken breasts receive a delicious makeover with creamy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken, offering a perfect balance of lean protein and cheesy goodness. Cheesy, tender, and packed with flavor, this recipe promises a satisfying meal that will delight you at first bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and chopped (or 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped)
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Cheese and Seasoning:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Finishing Ingredients:

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Set oven temperature to 375F (190C) for optimal cooking environment.
2. Create a harmonious filling by blending steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into a cohesive mixture.
3. Enhance chicken breasts with seasoning, applying salt, pepper, and optional paprika across both surfaces.
4. Carefully slice a deep pocket into each chicken breast without completely separating the meat, ensuring a secure cavity for the filling.
5. Generously pack each chicken breast with the prepared broccoli-cheese blend, using toothpicks to seal the opening if needed.
6. Warm olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, creating a golden-brown exterior by searing chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese atop each stuffed chicken breast for extra melty goodness.
8. Transfer skillet directly to preheated oven, roasting for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165F (74C) internal temperature and cheese becomes irresistibly bubbly.
9. Allow chicken to rest briefly after removing from oven, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving to enhance visual appeal and flavor profile.

Notes

• Prep the broccoli by steaming it until tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.
• Use a sharp knife and slice the chicken breast pocket carefully to prevent tearing and ensure even stuffing distribution.
• Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown sear and crispy exterior.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like Swiss or Gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Remove toothpicks before serving to prevent any accidental biting or choking hazards.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
• For a low-carb option, swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to reduce calories.
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is safely cooked without overdrying.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 330 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg