Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy filling made of broccoli and melty cheese. It’s an easy and delicious way to elevate a simple chicken dinner. Perfect for a weeknight or even a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Here’s how to make Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast:
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
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1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket in each chicken breast. Make a horizontal slit in the side of the chicken breast (being careful not to cut all the way through). The pocket should be large enough to hold the filling.
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Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Make the Broccoli Cheese Filling:
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In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed. The cream cheese will help hold everything together and make the filling creamy and rich.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
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Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli cheese mixture, dividing the filling evenly among the breasts. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overstuff them to avoid spilling.
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Once filled, secure the opening with toothpicks (if needed) or tie the chicken with kitchen twine to keep the filling inside while cooking.
4. Sear the Chicken:
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Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking the chicken through yet, just searing the outside to lock in flavor.
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After both sides are browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
5. Bake the Chicken:
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Bake the chicken breasts in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. If you like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken in the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy, golden crust.
6. Serve:
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Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Remove any toothpicks or twine.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serving Suggestions:
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Vegetables: Pair with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a green salad for a healthy, well-rounded meal.
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Starches: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious juices.
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Sauce: Drizzle with a bit of cream sauce or garlic butter for extra richness.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken:
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Chicken Breasts: If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may want to gently pound them to an even thickness with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly.
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Cheese Variations: You can use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
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Add-Ins: If you want to amp up the flavor, you can add cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling.
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Freezing: This recipe can be made ahead and frozen before baking. Just freeze the stuffed breasts individually, and when you’re ready to cook them, bake them straight from frozen—just add a bit more cooking time.
Why This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken is So Great:
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Flavorful and Filling: The creamy cheese and tender broccoli filling create a delicious contrast to the juicy, savory chicken.
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Versatile: You can adjust the cheese and seasoning to your tastes, and it pairs wonderfully with so many sides.
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Impressive Yet Easy: Despite looking fancy, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress at dinner.
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is an indulgent yet healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s cheesy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Enjoy!