Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of protein and veggies in one elegant yet simple meal. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests without a lot of fuss.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastssalt and peppergarlic powdersmoked paprikabroccoli florets (finely chopped)cheddar cheese (shredded)cream cheeseolive oiltoothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure the chicken)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Cut a pocket in the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well blended.

Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli-cheddar mixture and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesSearing time: 6-8 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon bits to the stuffing for a smoky twist.

Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for different flavor profiles.

Incorporate finely chopped red bell pepper or onion into the filling for extra texture and color.

Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking for a golden crust.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.To freeze, wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before mixing into the filling.

What’s the best way to secure the chicken?

Toothpicks work great, but kitchen twine can also be used to hold the stuffed breasts together while cooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto diet.

Can I prep this ahead?

Absolutely. You can assemble the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Can I grill instead of bake?

Yes, sear as directed then grill over medium heat with the lid closed for about 20 minutes, flipping once.

What sides go well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a fresh green salad complement it perfectly.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but they may be harder to stuff due to their smaller size. Make sure they are boneless and adjust cook time as needed.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a comforting, flavorful entrée that brings together the wholesome goodness of vegetables with melty cheese and tender chicken. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers a hearty and delicious solution that’s sure to satisfy.