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Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken
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Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a comforting and nutritious dinner combining tender boneless chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family meals, offering a balanced combination of protein, veggies, and melted cheese without any complicated steps or rare ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Filling

  • 1 cup broccoli florets, fresh or frozen, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Steam or lightly boil broccoli florets until just tender, then finely chop them. In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until evenly blended to create a creamy, cheesy filling.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold the broccoli cheese filling, so ensure it’s deep enough but intact.
  3. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the prepared filling into each chicken pocket, packing it firmly but gently. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed to prevent filling from spilling out during cooking.
  4. Season and Sear: Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown to lock in flavor and create a crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the seared chicken to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Notes

  • Broccoli Texture: Avoid overcooking broccoli in the filling; it should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
  • Cheese Choices: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting than pre-shredded varieties.
  • Secure the Pocket: Toothpicks or kitchen twine work well to keep the stuffing inside while cooking.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after baking to seal in juices.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken without dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheese stuffed chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, stuffed chicken breast, healthy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken recipe

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