Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs. 680g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 large breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon 15 ml olive oil
1 teaspoon 5 g garlic powder, divided
½ teaspoon 2.5 g paprika
1 tablespoon 5 g Italian seasoning
1 cup 120 g small chopped broccoli florets
1 cup 115 g shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup 60 g cream cheese
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lay the chicken breasts on a chopping board and carefully slice through the middle of each breast, creating a pocket for the stuffing.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning, ensuring they are well coated on all sides.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and cream cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to create a cheesy broccoli filling.
Spoon the filling mixture into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring they are evenly filled. Secure the pockets with toothpicks to keep the filling intact.
Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-17 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Once cooked, remove the toothpicks and let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast alongside your favorite sides or a crisp salad.
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450 | Protein: 50g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?
Certainly! While chicken thighs have a different texture, you can still create a pocket for the stuffing and follow the same cooking instructions.
What sides do you recommend serving with Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast?
This dish pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Can I prepare the Cheesy Broccoli filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
When ready to cook, stuff the chicken breasts just before searing and baking.
Is it necessary to use toothpicks to secure the chicken pockets?
Toothpicks help keep the filling in place during cooking, but you can use kitchen twine or cooking string as an alternative to secure the chicken pockets.
Can I freeze Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken for later?
It’s best to freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken breasts.
Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, place in a sealed container, and freeze.
Thaw before cooking according to the recipe instructions.
Can I use frozen broccoli in the filling for Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it before incorporating it into the filling to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with a different type of cheese?
Certainly! You can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences.
Mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are good alternatives.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Ensure the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with the stuffing.
Can I prepare Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast in advance?
You can assemble the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.
However, it’s recommended to sear and bake just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
What can I do if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish before placing them in the oven for the final cooking step.