Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a hearty, flavor-packed main dish featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy, cheesy broccoli mixture. Baked to perfection with a golden, seasoned crust, this stuffed chicken is easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for company. It’s a delicious way to sneak in veggies while keeping dinner satisfying and wholesome.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

boneless, skinless chicken breasts
broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)
cheddar cheese (shredded)
cream cheese (softened)
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
olive oil or melted butter
toothpicks (for securing, optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

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

In a bowl, mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli-cheddar mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.

Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and a bit more garlic or onion powder if desired.

Place the stuffed chicken in the prepared dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or chopped ham to the filling.
Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese twist.
Add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies.
Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or Parmesan for a crispy finish.
Marinate the chicken beforehand in lemon juice and herbs for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave gently until warmed through.
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy in the filling, but can be done if tightly wrapped.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before chopping and mixing.

Do I have to use cream cheese?
It adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or omit for a lighter filling.

Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat, flipping once carefully—use foil to help hold it together.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Don’t overfill, and secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.

What’s the best way to cut the pocket?
Use a sharp knife and gently slice horizontally from the thickest side, creating a deep pocket.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, stuff and season the chicken, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low-carb and high-protein—perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Boneless thighs can work but are more difficult to stuff—consider rolling them instead.

What can I serve with it?
Pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish and extend cooking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a satisfying, cheesy, and veggie-packed dish that transforms basic chicken into something special. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you get a comforting and flavorful dinner that’s bound to become a go-to favorite. Perfect for busy nights or a family dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

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