Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I just can’t get enough of it. It’s so easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet it feels like a special treat every time I serve it. The juicy chicken breasts filled with creamy broccoli and cheese are simply irresistible. Trust me, the flavor combination is to die for, and the best part is that it’s healthy too! You won’t believe how quickly this dish comes together. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful and satisfying meal!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of preparing this delightful dish! Trust me, you’re going to love how simple it is to make these broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breasts. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is so important because you want that oven hot and ready when it’s time to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, steam those broccoli florets until they’re tender, which should take about 5 minutes. You want them soft enough to mix easily, but not mushy!
- Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli with the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until you have a creamy, cheesy mixture—it should smell amazing!
- Now, take your chicken breasts and carefully cut a pocket into each one. Don’t cut all the way through; just enough to create a nice little pouch for that delicious filling.
- Stuff each chicken breast generously with the broccoli mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This adds so much flavor!
- Finally, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Your kitchen is going to smell incredible!
Once it’s done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This makes such a difference in keeping the chicken juicy. Enjoy every cheesy, broccoli-filled bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy filling that kids and adults will both love.
- Healthy ingredients like broccoli and lean chicken make it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Packed with flavor—each bite is a delightful explosion of cheesy goodness!
- Great for meal prepping; leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Customizable with different cheeses or veggies to suit your taste!
- Impressive enough for dinner parties but simple enough for everyday meals.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that have made a world of difference in my kitchen:
- Don’t rush the steaming: Make sure to steam your broccoli just until it’s tender, around 5 minutes. If you overcook it, you’ll end up with mushy filling, and we want that nice texture!
- Mix it well: When you combine the cheeses and broccoli, mix until it’s creamy and smooth. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- Careful with the pocket: When cutting into the chicken breast, be gentle! You want a nice pocket without slicing all the way through. This keeps everything inside during cooking.
- Searing is key: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a beautiful golden crust and enhances the flavor. Just a few minutes on each side can elevate the dish tremendously!
- Check for doneness: Always make sure your chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a little kick! You can also add some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the filling for extra veggies.
- Let it rest: After baking, give the chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful!
With these tips in your back pocket, I’m sure your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken will turn out delicious every time. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with this amazing broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast! There are so many fun ways to switch things up and keep your taste buds excited. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Cheese Swap: Instead of cheddar, try using mozzarella for a milder flavor, or go bold with pepper jack for a spicy kick! You could even mix different cheeses to create a cheesy masterpiece.
- Veggie Delight: Want to boost the nutrition? Add some finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the broccoli mixture. They’ll add extra flavor and texture!
- Herb Infusion: Spice things up by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme into your filling. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a fresh twist!
- Italian Style: For an Italian flair, mix in some marinara sauce with the cheese before stuffing the chicken. It’ll give you a delightful twist, reminiscent of chicken parmesan!
- Buffalo Chicken: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of buffalo sauce to the cheese mixture. It’ll give your dish a zesty kick that’s perfect for spice lovers!
- Stuffed with a Twist: Instead of just broccoli, you could also try using other vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for unique flavors. Just make sure to steam them first to soften them up!
- Seasonal Spin: Experiment with seasonal veggies! In the fall, add some roasted butternut squash, or in the summer, toss in some fresh corn. Each season brings new flavors to explore!
These variations are a great way to keep this dish fresh and exciting, so don’t be afraid to mix and match! Enjoy discovering what combinations you love best!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast tasting just as amazing as when they came out of the oven! First off, if you have any leftovers (which I hope you do, because they’re fantastic!), let the chicken cool down completely before packing it up.
Store your stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them sealed well to prevent any moisture loss—nobody likes dry chicken!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to help retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps the chicken juicy and avoids that rubbery texture you sometimes get in the microwave.
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn’t get too hot. But be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants chewy chicken!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your yummy broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast for days to come. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s dive into the nutritional details of our delicious broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast! This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but can also fit nicely into a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (that’s one stuffed chicken breast):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used or portion sizes. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in this tasty meal while still watching your nutrition. Enjoy every cheesy bite, knowing it’s packed with protein and flavor!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli for the filling?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the cheeses. This will keep your filling nice and creamy!
What can I serve with broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast?
I love serving this dish with a fresh side salad or some fluffy rice. It balances the richness of the chicken perfectly. You could also pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it a few hours in advance, then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Just be sure to cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, make sure there’s no pink in the middle, and the juices should run clear!
Can I substitute the cheese in this recipe?
Definitely! If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to try mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly depending on what you choose!
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast: 7 Irresistible Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This dish features chicken breasts filled with a creamy broccoli and cheese mixture.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the broccoli mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a side salad or rice.
- Try adding different cheeses for variation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast
