Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Stuffing:
01 -
1 cup fresh broccoli florets, steamed and chopped (or 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped)
02 -
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
03 -
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
04 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
1/4 tsp garlic powder
06 -
1/4 tsp onion powder
07 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
→ For the Chicken:
08 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
09 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
10 -
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
11 -
1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor and color)
→ For the Topping:
12 -
1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
13 -
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 -
Steam the broccoli florets until tender (about 4-5 minutes) and chop them into small pieces. In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
03 -
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
04 -
Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast, filling it generously. Secure the chicken breasts with toothpicks if necessary to ensure the stuffing stays inside while cooking.
05 -
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
06 -
After searing, sprinkle the tops of the stuffed chicken breasts with a little extra shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
07 -
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
# Notes:
01 -
Stuffing Variations: You can add a little bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the stuffing mixture for extra creaminess.
02 -
Chicken Prep: If the chicken breasts are very thick, you can butterfly them first or use a meat mallet to slightly flatten them for easier stuffing.
03 -
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a mild kick.