Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
The broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast recipe is a delightful way to elevate everyday chicken into a flavorful, veggie-packed meal. It features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mix of broccoli, cheddar, and cream cheese, then seared and baked to golden perfection. This dish balances indulgence with nutrition, sneaking in greens while delivering melty cheese in every bite. It's ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, requiring minimal prep and common ingredients. The result is juicy, satisfying chicken that's sure to please a crowd. Overall, this broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast recipe combines simplicity with comfort food appeal.
Equipment
- sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Meat mallet or rolling pin (for pounding chicken)
- Large skillet (oven-safe if possible)
- Baking sheet or dish
- Toothpicks
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets thawed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Toothpicks for securing the chicken
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and gently pound to 1/4-inch thick. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Set aside while making the filling. Don’t tear the meat.
Make the Broccoli Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed. Make sure it’s tasty and sticks together for stuffing.
Stuff the Chicken
- Put some filling in the middle of each chicken breast. Roll it up and tuck in the sides. Use toothpicks to keep it closed. It’s okay if a little filling shows it’ll melt while cooking.
Sear the Stuffed Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Place stuffed chicken seam-side down and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Cook in batches if needed.
Bake to Perfection
- Put the chicken on a baking sheet or leave it in the oven-safe pan. Add Parmesan if you like. Bake for 20-25 minutes until it hits 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Serve and Enjoy
- Take out the toothpicks. You can slice the chicken in half to show the cheesy filling. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy
Notes
When making this recipe, remember to pound the chicken evenly to avoid tearing and ensure uniform cooking. Drain the broccoli well to prevent a watery filling, and use toothpicks securely to keep everything intact during searing. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety, and let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.