Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. Seared to a golden brown and finished in the oven, this dish is a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, 1 tsp (divided)
- Paprika, 1 tsp
- Italian seasoning, 1 tsp
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Filling
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare the chicken.
- Create chicken pockets: Slice each chicken breast horizontally, carefully cutting to create a pocket without slicing all the way through.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the garlic powder evenly over the chicken breasts on both sides.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, remaining garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each chicken pocket, ensuring even distribution. Use toothpicks to secure the opening and keep the stuffing inside.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, discard the toothpicks, and plate the stuffed chicken breasts for serving.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut all the way through chicken breasts when creating pockets to keep the filling contained.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to verify chicken is cooked fully to 165°F for food safety.
- You can substitute mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for cheddar if preferred.
- To save time, finely chop broccoli so it combines better with the cheeses.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
