broccoli cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and nutritious dish that takes simple chicken breasts to the next level. Packed with a creamy, cheesy filling of broccoli and cheddar, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving a comforting, yet healthy meal. The tender chicken is perfectly complemented by the rich, cheesy filling, making it a hit for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and full of delicious flavors that everyone will love.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
Directions:
Prepare the stuffing:
- Steam the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Once steamed, chop the broccoli into small pieces and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined and creamy.
Prepare the chicken:
- Prep the chicken: Use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a space to stuff the filling.
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the broccoli cheddar filling into the pocket of each chicken breast. Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Cook the chicken:
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Finish cooking: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each stuffed chicken breast during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Serve:
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes:
- Chicken Variations: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make Ahead: The broccoli cheddar filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. You can also stuff and refrigerate the chicken ahead of time, then bake when ready to cook.
- Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion:
Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, creamy broccoli cheddar filling, and simple seasoning creates a dish everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a family Dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try today for a comforting, cheesy, and healthy dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken ahead of time, and if so, how far in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli cheddar filling up to 1 day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also stuff the chicken breasts with the filling and refrigerate them, uncooked, for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake the stuffed chicken as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What are some good substitutions for the ingredients, especially if I don’t have cheddar cheese or fresh broccoli?
Certainly! For cheddar cheese, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a sharp provolone, using a 1:1 ratio. For the broccoli, you can use frozen broccoli florets, thawed and well-drained, using the same amount as fresh. If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt, but reduce the amount slightly to about 3 tablespoons as they may be tangier. Remember to adjust seasoning to taste.
How do I know when the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is perfectly cooked, and what internal temperature should I aim for?
The chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast, ensuring it doesn’t touch the filling. Visually, the chicken should be opaque throughout, with no pink remaining. The filling should be heated through and slightly bubbly, and the chicken should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Can I double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd, and what adjustments do I need to make?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. When doubling or tripling the recipe, you may need to use multiple skillets for searing the chicken, or use a larger oven-safe skillet. Adjust the baking time slightly, adding a few minutes to the overall cooking time if you are using more chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
What are the main nutritional benefits of this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken recipe?
This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken, essential for muscle building and repair. Broccoli provides a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Cheddar cheese contributes calcium for strong bones, and the cream cheese adds a creamy texture and a bit of fat for satiety. The recipe, when baked, is a healthier option than fried chicken.
Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken – Tender Chicken Filled with Cheesy, Veggie Goodness
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a delightful meal that combines juicy chicken with a savory broccoli and cheese filling. It's a perfect choice for dinner.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 1 cup broccoli florets chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast for the stuffing.
- Mix broccoli, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheddar mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt and black pepper, then brown in the skillet.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
