Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and hearty main dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy cheeses, and fresh broccoli for a perfect balance of flavor and texture. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, bringing together the nutritious benefits of lean chicken and broccoli with the indulgent flavors of cheddar, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Each bite offers a delightful mix of creaminess and tenderness, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners in the kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
   • Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a thick, cheesy filling.
3. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
   • Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to make a deep pocket in the thickest side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Season the outside of the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper for added flavor.
4. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
   • Carefully spoon the broccoli-cheese mixture into each pocket, filling them generously. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the openings, ensuring the filling stays inside while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step helps to lock in moisture and add extra flavor.
6. Bake the Chicken:
   • Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve:
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx. 1 stuffed chicken breast)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 44g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on exact ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, frozen broccoli can work in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the filling too watery.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?
   • Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
   • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella, Swiss, or gouda can add a unique flavor to the filling.
4. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
   • You can use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast is a good substitute for Parmesan if you still want a cheesy flavor.
5. How do I keep the filling from spilling out?
   • Ensure the pocket is deep enough, and use toothpicks to secure the chicken if necessary. A good sear also helps seal the edges.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken

1. Choose Thick Chicken Breasts:
   • Thicker chicken breasts work best for stuffing, as they allow for a deeper pocket without risking the filling spilling out.
2. Don’t Overfill the Chicken:
   • Avoid over-stuffing, as this can cause the filling to leak out. You want just enough filling to create a delicious balance between the cheese and chicken.
3. Adjust the Seasoning to Taste:
   • Taste the filling mixture before adding it to the chicken. A bit more salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors.
4. Sear for Extra Flavor:
   • Searing the chicken before baking adds color and enhances the taste. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s worth the few extra minutes.
5. Use an Oven-Safe Skillet:
   • If you have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear and bake the chicken in the same pan, saving on cleanup and preserving any juices for extra flavor.