Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that truly delivers both flavor and wow-factor, let me introduce you to the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe. This dish has everything: juicy chicken, a creamy broccoli-cheddar filling, and plenty of savory spice. Each bite is like a celebration — tender chicken wrapping around cheesy, garlicky broccoli, all with a crisp golden crust. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight craving, this recipe always gets rave reviews from family and friends. Trust me, it’s one of those go-to classics you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe to life. Every ingredient is handpicked to build serious flavor and color — from the fresh broccoli to the melty cheddar. Nothing here is fussy, but each one makes a difference in taste and texture!
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts so they’re easy to butterfly and fill.
- Broccoli florets: Chop them finely and steam for the perfect tender bite and a pop of green.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a deep, cheesy flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant, savory note that ties the filling together.
- Onion powder: Just a teaspoon blends right in for a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Paprika: This adds a lovely blush of color and mild smokiness to the chicken.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors — don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and finishes the seasoning perfectly.
- Olive oil: Use for searing, creating a deliciously golden crust on the chicken.
- Dijon mustard (optional): A tangy secret weapon that makes the filling extra punchy.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Secure those stuffed chicken breasts so all the cheesy goodness stays inside.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Butterfly the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking. Start by carefully butterflying each chicken breast — use a sharp knife to slice horizontally through the thickest part, but don’t cut all the way through. Open the breast like a book; this gives you the perfect pouch for stuffing.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine your steamed, finely chopped broccoli with the shredded cheddar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if you’d like a boost of tangy flavor. Mix it up until everything looks well distributed and creamy. This filling is what makes the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe so irresistibly cheesy and comforting!
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Pat the butterflied chicken breasts dry with a paper towel for the crispiest sear. Sprinkle each side with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. This blend not only gives beautiful color to the chicken but also layers in flavor so every bite is satisfying.
Step 4: Stuff, Secure, and Sear
Spoon the broccoli-cheddar mixture evenly into each chicken breast, being careful not to overfill. Gently close the chicken and secure the open edge with toothpicks or a tie of kitchen twine. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed breasts for 3 to 4 minutes per side, letting them turn golden brown for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Finish
Once seared, transfer the skillet straight into your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and melty (internal temperature should hit 165°F or 74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle — the hardest part is waiting!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds a splash of color and a pop of fresh flavor. You can also add a light dusting of extra sharp cheddar to the tops during the last few baking minutes for a melty, golden finish.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe goes beautifully with pillowy mashed potatoes, lemony rice, or even a crisp garden salad. If you want to keep things low-carb, serve with roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash for a fully satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive plate, slice each stuffed chicken breast at a diagonal and fan out the pieces so everyone can see the vibrant filling. Drizzle with any pan juices and serve on a colorful platter for that wow-worthy, restaurant-style look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe portions in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, staying moist and flavorful.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil to prevent drying. It usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also reheat gently in the microwave in one-minute bursts, but the oven will help maintain the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just make sure you thaw and pat it dry first to avoid watery filling. Frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh in this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe.
What’s the best way to secure the chicken breasts?
Toothpicks are simple and effective — just remember to remove them before serving! Kitchen twine is another sturdy option if you’re making a big batch.
Is it okay to add more cheese?
Go for it! If you love things extra cheesy, add up to a ¼ cup more cheddar or even mix in a spoonful of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken — you want an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). No thermometer? The juices should run clear, and the meat will feel firm but not dry.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours or even the day before, keep them covered in the fridge, and simply cook when ready. It’s a great make-ahead meal for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving something comfortingly cheesy or planning a special meal, you can’t go wrong with the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to a dish that feels like pure home-cooked happiness. I can’t wait for you to share it at your own table!
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Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful filling of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and aromatic seasonings. A delicious and impressive dish perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets (finely chopped and steamed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)
- toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally without cutting through, then open like a book.
- Prepare filling: In a bowl, mix steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, garlic, and Dijon mustard if using.
- Season chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder on both sides.
- Stuff chicken: Fill each chicken breast with broccoli-cheddar mixture, secure with toothpicks or twine.
- Sear chicken: Sear chicken in olive oil in an oven-safe skillet until golden.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to oven, bake for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the filling.
- You can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available; just thaw and pat dry before using.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
