Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Juicy chicken breasts are packed with cheesy broccoli goodness and baked to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Packed with protein and nutrients
Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner
Juicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy filling
Easy to customize with different cheeses and seasonings

Ingredients

Here are some of the key ingredients you’ll need:

skinless chicken breasts
broccoli florets, finely chopped
shredded cheddar cheese
cream cheese, softened
grated Parmesan cheese
garlic, minced
olive oil
paprika
Italian seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Toothpicks or kitchen twine

You’ll find the full list of ingredients below!

Preparing the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Making the Filling

In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and seasonings. Stir until well combined.

Stuffing the Chicken

Spoon the broccoli mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling in place.

Baking to Perfection

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken
Blanch the broccoli briefly for a softer texture
Add a sprinkle of parmesan for extra cheesy goodness

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor
Add cooked bacon bits for extra richness
Use spinach instead of broccoli for another nutritious twist

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this dish with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with garlic bread or quinoa for a hearty meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results, or microwave in short bursts until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing.

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out? Secure the edges with toothpicks or sear the chicken briefly before baking.

Can I cook this in an air fryer? Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation!

Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast – A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner

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Author: Lily Carter
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

A succulent chicken breast filled with a creamy mixture of broccoli and cheese, then baked to perfection. This dish combines tender chicken with a savory, cheesy filling, making it a family favorite.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Brush this seasoning mix over the stuffed chicken breasts.
Bake: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Enjoy your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Notes

For even cooking, consider gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting the pockets.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend for varied flavors.
Enhance the filling with additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
Calories: 525 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1,782mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 46g
Cholesterol: 139mg