Chicken Breasts With Broccoli Cheese Stuffing

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

½ cup shredded cheddar

¼ cup shredded parmesan

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 cups chopped cooked broccoli florets

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ minced red or green bell pepper

2 minced garlic cloves

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Cut a pocket in each chicken breast but DO NOT cut all the way through!

Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and paprika.

Toss the broccoli with the bell pepper, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, parmesan, garlic, and some more salt and black pepper.

Stuff each chicken breast with the cheesy broccoli mixture.

Heat the oil in a skillet on a stove.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Sear both sides of the chicken in the hot oil.

Transfer the chicken on to a baking sheet.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

In a bowl, combine the broccoli, bell pepper, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, minced garlic and salt and pepper to taste.

Stuff the chicken with the broccoli mixture.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat on the stove.

Sear both sides of the chicken breasts and place them onto a baking sheet.

Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Notes

Use toothpicks to hold the filling inside the chicken if needed. Discard them before serving.

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Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh cooked broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets for convenience.

Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe to prevent excess moisture.

Can I substitute the cheeses with lower-fat options?

Absolutely, you can use reduced-fat cheddar and parmesan cheeses to lower the overall fat content of the dish while still enjoying the cheesy flavor.

What’s the purpose of cutting a pocket in the chicken breasts?

Cutting a pocket allows you to stuff the chicken breasts with the broccoli and cheese mixture, creating a flavorful and cheesy filling inside the chicken.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken before baking helps develop a golden-brown crust and adds flavor.

However, if you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step and bake the chicken directly.

Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing mixture?

Absolutely, you can get creative with the stuffing.

Chopped herbs, diced onions, or even cooked bacon bits could be added to enhance the flavor and texture of the stuffing.

Can I use a different type of seasoning instead of Italian seasoning?

Of course, you can experiment with different seasonings that you enjoy.

Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even cumin could add unique flavors to the dish.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute as a base for the stuffing.

What’s the purpose of covering the baking sheet with aluminum foil?

Covering the baking sheet with aluminum foil helps trap moisture and heat, ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy while baking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the stuffing and even stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time.

Then, sear and bake them just before serving.

Can I use different types of bell peppers?

Yes, you can use red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers based on your preference.

Different colors can add visual appeal and slightly varying flavors.