Best Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Stuffed chicken breasts are an excellent way to elevate a simple dinner into something flavorful and satisfying. Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts combine tender chicken breasts with a creamy, savory filling of broccoli and cheese. The combination of a tender, juicy chicken exterior with a warm, melty cheese center is irresistible.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly once it’s stuffed and placed in the oven.

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2. Prepare the chicken breasts: Start by placing the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast. Insert the knife horizontally into the side of the chicken breast, creating a large pocket without cutting all the way through. Be sure to leave the edges intact so that the filling stays inside. The size of the pocket should be large enough to hold the stuffing but not so large that it causes the chicken to tear.

3. Season the chicken: Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, making sure to coat the outside evenly. Then, sprinkle each breast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Optionally, you can add a little dried thyme or any of your favorite herbs for extra flavor. This seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the creamy stuffing.

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Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli Cheese Stuffing

1. Blanch the broccoli: Bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Boil the broccoli for about 1-2 minutes, just until it turns bright green and slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve the vibrant color and keeps the broccoli from getting too soft. Once it cools, drain it thoroughly and chop it into smaller pieces.

2. Make the cheese mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy with chunks of broccoli and melty cheese.

3. Adjust seasoning: Taste the stuffing mixture and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a little lemon juice for a bit of tang.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

1. Stuff the chicken: Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Use a spoon to add the filling, packing it in gently to avoid tearing the chicken. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, you may have some leftover filling, which can be served as a side or used in another dish.

2. Secure the chicken: Once the chicken is stuffed, use toothpicks to secure the opening of each chicken breast. Be sure to remove the toothpicks after baking. This will prevent the stuffing from spilling out during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare for baking: If you’re opting for the breadcrumb coating, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. After securing the chicken breasts, dip them into the breadcrumb mixture, coating the outside evenly.

2. Sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden brown. This step helps create a crispy exterior while locking in the moisture and flavor of the chicken.

3. Transfer to the oven: After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, simply transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish. Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. If you’re using breadcrumbs, the crust should be golden brown and crispy.

4. Rest the chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the chicken remains moist and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove toothpicks: Be sure to remove the toothpicks from the chicken before serving.

2. Serve: Slice the chicken breasts in half to reveal the creamy broccoli cheese stuffing inside. Serve the chicken with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.

3. Garnish: You can garnish the chicken with extra shredded cheese, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors further.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some great sides to serve alongside your Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers are great vegetable side dishes that pair well with the richness of the chicken and broccoli stuffing.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, providing a smooth and rich contrast to the crispy chicken.

• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great alternative to regular rice and can be flavored with garlic and herbs for extra taste.

• Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich chicken.

• Garlic Bread: If you’re serving this for a family dinner, garlic bread or crusty bread is a nice option to mop up any remaining cheesy sauce.

Tips and Variations

• Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar and Parmesan work wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Add Bacon: For an extra savory kick, crumble cooked bacon into the stuffing mixture. Bacon pairs perfectly with broccoli and cheese, adding a smoky, crispy texture to the dish.

• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the stuffing mixture for a spicy twist.

• Add Garlic and Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the stuffing by adding minced garlic, fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley), or even a dash of Dijon mustard for extra tang.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

Store any leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

To reheat, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the texture of the chicken may not be as crispy as when freshly baked.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts is a fantastic dish that combines the comforting flavors of broccoli, cheese, and tender chicken. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering. The stuffing is creamy, flavorful, and full of savory goodness, while the chicken remains moist and juicy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like bacon or herbs to make it your own. This recipe is bound to become a family favorite and a go-to meal in your rotation.