I’ve been on a mission to find the perfect weeknight dinner, and I think I’ve finally found it with this Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe. It was an instant hit with my family, transforming a simple chicken dinner into something truly special.
The chicken comes out incredibly juicy, and the cheesy broccoli filling is absolutely delicious. This recipe looks impressive, but I was surprised by how easy it was to put together. It has definitely earned a permanent spot in my meal rotation. You can also enjoy similar dishes like Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe for a unique twist on stuffed meals.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this fantastic dish. Using fresh, quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
- 3 large chicken breasts: Bigger breasts are easier to stuff and create a more substantial serving.
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder, divided: This adds a savory depth to both the chicken seasoning and the filling.
- ¼ tsp paprika: Provides a subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the chicken’s exterior.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors of the filling.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped: Chop them small so they cook evenly and fit nicely inside the chicken pocket.
- ½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced: This adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the stuffing.
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded: For the best melt, I recommend grating your own cheese from a block.
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise: Acts as a binder for the filling, ensuring it’s creamy and stays together.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, which creates a golden-brown crust and locks in the juices.
Note: Serves 4
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a little extra heat.
- Different Cheeses: Swap the mild cheddar for sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or spinach. Just be sure to cook them down first to remove excess moisture.
- Herbaceous Twist: Mix fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill into the filling for a brighter, fresher taste.
- Creamier Filling: For an even richer filling, substitute the mayonnaise with an equal amount of softened cream cheese. You can also pair this with Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe for a comforting side.
Cooking Time
This recipe comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
You don’t need much to make this recipe, but a couple of key items will make the process smoother.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for creating the pocket in the chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for prepping your chicken and vegetables.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the delicious broccoli, cheese, and pepper filling.
- Oven-Safe Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is perfect for searing the chicken on the stovetop and then transferring it directly to the oven.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This recipe is straightforward and delivers a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen. The process involves seasoning the chicken, preparing the stuffing, and a simple two-step cooking method that ensures juicy results every time.
Prepare the Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and about half a teaspoon of the garlic powder. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Make the Filling
To prepare the filling, place your finely chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with about two tablespoons of water. Cover it and microwave for just one minute to slightly soften it, then drain any excess water. To the bowl, add the diced red bell pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, the remaining garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken
Mix the filling ingredients until they are well combined. Carefully divide the cheesy broccoli mixture among the three chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets you created. If you overstuffed them slightly, you can use a toothpick to help seal the pocket and keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Sear and Bake
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for at least 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender. After resting, remove any toothpicks, slice the chicken, and serve it warm.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After making this a few times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it to the next level.
- I found that using chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness ensures they all cook at the same rate. If some are much thicker, I gently pound them to a more even thickness before cutting the pocket.
- Don’t be afraid to really pack the filling in. The cheese melts and holds everything together, and a generously stuffed chicken is so satisfying.
- When searing the chicken, I make sure my pan is properly heated before adding the chicken. This gives it a beautiful, crisp, golden-brown crust that adds so much flavor and texture.
- Letting the chicken rest is non-negotiable for me. The first time I made it, I was impatient and sliced it right away, and a lot of the delicious juices ran out. Resting makes a huge difference.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete and balanced meal, serve it with garlic parmesan rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up any juices from the chicken. A side of roasted green beans, steamed asparagus, or a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette also works beautifully. For presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Nutritional Information
Here is a general overview of the nutritional content for one serving of this recipe.
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Protein: 44g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 24g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is great for meal prepping or saving for later. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious.
Storing
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or another easy dinner.
Freezing
You can also freeze the cooked and cooled stuffed chicken. Wrap each breast individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain its texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, but the oven method prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this stuffed chicken breast recipe is sure to become a favorite.
- Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a gourmet-style dinner on the table in under half an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of savory seasonings, creamy cheese, and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that feels indulgent yet is simple to make.
- Completely Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. You can easily swap out the cheese, add different vegetables, or introduce new spices to suit your family’s tastes.
- Looks Impressive: Despite being easy to make, the final dish looks elegant and complex. It’s a great meal to serve when you have guests over and want to impress them without spending hours in the kitchen.
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- First, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and about half a teaspoon of the garlic powder. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- To prepare the filling, place your finely chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with about two tablespoons of water. Cover it and microwave for just one minute to slightly soften it, then drain any excess water. To the bowl, add the diced red bell pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, the remaining garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mix the filling ingredients until they are well combined. Carefully divide the cheesy broccoli mixture among the three chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets you created. If you overstuffed them slightly, you can use a toothpick to help seal the pocket and keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the pan and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for at least 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender. After resting, remove any toothpicks, slice the chicken, and serve it warm.
Notes
- I found that using chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness ensures they all cook at the same rate. If some are much thicker, I gently pound them to a more even thickness before cutting the pocket.
- Don’t be afraid to really pack the filling in. The cheese melts and holds everything together, and a generously stuffed chicken is so satisfying.
- When searing the chicken, I make sure my pan is properly heated before adding the chicken. This gives it a beautiful, crisp, golden-brown crust that adds so much flavor and texture.
- Letting the chicken rest is non-negotiable for me. The first time I made it, I was impatient and sliced it right away, and a lot of the delicious juices ran out. Resting makes a huge difference.
