This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a tasty treat that combines juicy chicken with cheesy, creamy goodness and fresh broccoli. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
Honestly, who can resist the sound of that melty cheese? I swear, every time I make this, my kitchen turns into a little cheese factory! 😄 I pair it with a side salad, and I’m all set!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the stars here! For a twist, you can use thighs for more flavor. Just remember, they might take a little longer to cook through.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is recommended for its crunch. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but mixing it with mozzarella adds creaminess. For a sharper flavor, try a mix with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for some heat!
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. For a lighter option, you could substitute with Greek yogurt. It won’t be as rich, but it still adds creaminess.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder, along with paprika, bring flavor. Feel free to switch them out. Garlic salt works fine if you’re out of the powders. A touch of cayenne can also add warmth.
How Can I Safely Stuff the Chicken Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky! It’s important to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Use a sharp knife to slice horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken breast.
- Open the flap to create a pocket. If it feels too small, carefully cut a bit more.
- Make sure to stuff gently, avoiding overfilling. You want it to hold together nicely without bursting.
- Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed, which helps keep everything inside during cooking.
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How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For The Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook in the oven, so plan for around 45 minutes in total. It’s a quick and easy dish that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be ready when it’s time to bake the chicken!
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This will be the delicious filling for your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Carefully take your chicken breasts and slice a pocket into each one. Make sure not to cut all the way through so that the filling doesn’t spill out.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Fill each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese mixture. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the opening so that the stuffing stays inside while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This gives them a nice color and flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. If you want some extra flavor, sprinkle a little more paprika and some red pepper flakes on top. Then, pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all the juices inside. Carefully remove any toothpicks, slice your stuffed chicken, and enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before starting. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. This ensures even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a substitute. They both provide creaminess, but keep in mind that Greek yogurt will add a slight tanginess. You can also blend cottage cheese until smooth for a healthier option!
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken?
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to keep it moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Stuffing?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely and mix them in with the broccoli and cheese for a delicious twist!
