If you’re searching for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine juicy chicken breasts generously filled with tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that creates an unforgettable taste experience—perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends. Let’s dive into how you can bring this delicious, cheesy, veggie-packed chicken dish to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly, each bringing its own magic to the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe. The chicken provides a juicy base, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture, and the cheddar cheese offers that irresistible creamy sharpness. Together, these essentials create a dish that’s as wholesome as it is scrumptious.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas, tender and easy to stuff once butterflied.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of chicken and stuffing.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory undertone that complements the broccoli and cheese.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick that balances the creamy filling.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Offers a gentle smoky note and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces: Brings crunch and vibrant green color to the stuffing.
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly, creating gooey pockets of flavor inside the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Keeps the filling moist and adds a smooth richness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to a golden brown before baking.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C) so it’s ready to go once your chicken is seared. Next, carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally to create a pocket—this is where all the cheesy broccoli goodness will go. If your chicken breasts are an uneven thickness, give them a gentle pound with a mallet until they’re about one inch thick for even cooking. Season generously with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika to build a flavorful base layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing and Stuff the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli, shredded sharp cheddar, and mayonnaise. The mayo does double duty here by binding the filling ingredients and keeping everything creamy. Take your prepped chicken breasts and carefully fill each pocket with this vibrant mixture. If the filling feels like it might spill, gently secure the opening with toothpicks to keep everything snug.
Step 3: Sear the Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them until golden brown on both sides. This step is essential because it locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust that makes every bite interesting, giving you contrast between the crispy outside and the melty filling inside.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Once seared, transfer the skillet straight to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15 to 25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This slow finish ensures the cheese melts evenly and the broccoli softens without the chicken drying out.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes in the skillet. This brief pause lets the juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist and flavorful. When you slice into it, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, cheesy center surrounded by perfectly tender chicken.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Garnishes
To dress this dish up even more, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that balance the richness of the cheddar. A light drizzle of lemon juice can also lift the flavors wonderfully and add a fresh zing.
Side Dishes
The Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete for attention. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted baby carrots, or a crisp garden salad complement the richness and add complementary textures. For a low-carb option, roasted cauliflower or sautéed green beans work like a charm.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special presentation, slice the chicken breasts crosswise to reveal the stuffed center and fan the slices on a warm plate. Place a spoonful of pan juices or a light garlic butter sauce around the chicken for added moisture and visual appeal. Serving over a bed of fluffy couscous or wild rice can turn this dish into an elegant centerpiece for any dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and trust me, there’s a good chance you will), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed chicken breasts either cooked or uncooked. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Frozen cooked chicken will last up to two months, while uncooked chicken should be used within one month to maintain the best quality.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, reheat gently in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the chicken juicy and allows the cheese to melt freshly without drying out the meat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause texture to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well as long as you thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing with the cheese and mayonnaise. This prevents excess moisture from making the filling watery.
What if I don’t have mayonnaise on hand?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a bit of cream cheese to maintain the creamy texture while adding a slight tang.
How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). This is the safest and most accurate way to check doneness without cutting into the chicken.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a wonderful tang, you can experiment with mozzarella for meltiness or gouda for a slightly smoky flavor, depending on your mood.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing is highly recommended because it seals in the juices and develops a flavorful crust. Skipping this step may result in less color and slightly drier chicken, but it will still be tasty.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so satisfying about the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and offers just enough flair to feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. I hope you give it a try and discover how effortlessly it can elevate your dinner routine while delighting everyone at your table.
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Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious and wholesome Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe that features tender chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture of chopped broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. The chicken breasts are seasoned, seared to perfection in an oven-safe skillet, then baked to juicy perfection, making a perfect family-friendly dinner in just about 31 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Stuffing
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing through the side to create a pocket suitable for stuffing. If the chicken breasts are uneven, gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch for uniform cooking. Season each chicken breast evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Stuff and Sear: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise until well blended. Stuff this mixture carefully into the chicken pockets and secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the filling from escaping. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sear each stuffed chicken breast until both sides are beautifully browned, locking in moisture and developing rich flavor.
- Bake: Once seared, transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is safely cooked through and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Remove the toothpicks before serving. Plate the stuffed chicken breasts hot, pairing them with your favorite side for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure not to overfill the chicken pockets to prevent the stuffing from leaking out during cooking.
- To check doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast without touching the cheese filling.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- Ensure the skillet you use is oven-safe to allow seamless transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Leftover stuffed chicken can be refrigerated and reheated within 2 days for best quality.
