Description
Enjoy a delightful Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken, where tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy blend of broccoli and cheddar cheese. This nutritious and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheese mixture. Set aside.
- On a cutting board, slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese filling, packing it tightly.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Slice the chicken breasts in half to reveal the cheesy filling. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions into the filling.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese for a healthier option.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes