Hey y’all! If you’re craving something that’s both hearty and indulgent, look no further than these Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts. With tender chicken enveloping a creamy broccoli and cheddar filling, it’s a dish that satisfies all cravings and fits perfectly for family dinners or special occasions alike. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It combines the classic flavors of broccoli and cheddar with juicy chicken.
- The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- These stuffed chicken breasts are a great way to sneak in some veggies.
- You can easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes and preferences.
- The dish is both filling and nutritious, satisfying your hunger and taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.
Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Stuff the Chicken
Divide the broccoli cheddar mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Sear and Bake
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- Ensure to not overfill the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from spilling out. Learn how to butterfly chicken breasts here.
- Using fresh broccoli gives a better texture compared to frozen, but both work.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Variations
- Spinach and Feta: Substitute broccoli and cheddar with fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
- Mozzarella and Sun-Dried Tomato: Use mozzarella cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian twist.
- Bacon and Cheddar: Add cooked bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor.
Required Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Oven-safe skillet
- Toothpicks
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before stuffing.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the chicken before baking. Learn how to make crispy chicken here.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Fresh chicken breasts are recommended for best results, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before preparation. - Is there a way to make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed. - What can I do if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
After searing the chicken, transfer it to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.