Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Quick & Flavorful Delight

Stuck on what to make for dinner? This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect solution! It’s fast, satisfying, and a fantastic combination of protein and vegetables, all in one delicious bite. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients, and it’s ready on your dinner table in just about 25 minutes. Plus, I’ve included many easy substitutions to accommodate whatever you have on hand. This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an exciting and nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.

When you’re craving comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like chicken and cheese. But why stop there? This recipe takes the beloved flavors of broccoli cheddar soup and packs them into a juicy chicken breast. It’s an inventive twist on traditional stuffed chicken, delivering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Forget bland dinners, and say hello to your new family favorite!

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a flexible guide. I’ve included tips and tricks for easy ingredient swaps, so you can use frozen broccoli, your favorite fresh herbs, or any spices in your pantry. It’s all about making it your own!

Get ready to raid your fridge for cheese, herbs, and spices because you’re about to create a hearty, flavor-packed meal. Prepare for it to become a regular part of your meal planning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken recipe is a winner because:

• It requires just a handful of ingredients.
• It takes only 25 minutes from start to finish.
• It’s juicy and cheesy – the perfect combination!
• It’s easily customizable with ingredients you already have.
• It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
• It offers a complete and balanced meal, combining protein, veggies, and dairy.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults.
• It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and healthy dinner.
• It’s satisfying and comforting, making it a great option for colder months.
• It is great for meal prepping. You can make it ahead for a great lunch or dinner.

When it comes to stuffed chicken breasts, the possibilities are endless, but this recipe keeps it simple and cheesy. It emphasizes fresh and flavorful components without requiring advanced cooking skills.

A simple mixture of broccoli, cheddar, cream cheese, and herbs makes the most flavorful filling. However, don’t feel limited to broccoli and cheddar! Below are some ideas for different substitutions you can make to use up the odds and ends in your fridge. It’s all about making the recipe work for you and reducing food waste.

Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, protein-packed base for our stuffed chicken. Opt for chicken breasts that are uniform in size to ensure consistent cooking. Avoid chicken breasts that are too thick, as they may take longer to cook through.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen can be used; follow the instructions to prevent excess moisture that can make the filling too runny. Chop the broccoli into small, even pieces to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for a richer and more pronounced flavor in the filling. You can also use a blend of cheddar and other cheeses for a more complex taste.
• Cream cheese: This adds creaminess and acts as a binder for the filling. Full-fat cream cheese is ideal for the best texture and flavor. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute reduced-fat or neufchâtel cream cheese. Alternatively, goat cheese or feta cheese will add a tangy twist to the filling.
• Fresh herbs: Fresh chives add a bright, oniony flavor, but feel free to substitute with any fresh herbs you prefer. Parsley, thyme, or rosemary are excellent choices.
• Spices: This is where you can personalize the dish! Garlic powder and cumin add rich flavors to the broccoli and cheese filling. Feel free to use your favorite seasonings to match your taste. Smoked paprika, onion powder, or Italian seasoning would be delicious. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Olive Oil: Needed to sear the chicken breasts. You can also use Avocado oil.
• Salt and Pepper: Needed for seasoning.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast:

1. Steam the broccoli: Microwave the broccoli with a little water to steam it quickly. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to trap the steam.
2. Drain the broccoli: Drain the steamed broccoli on paper towels before chopping it. This will ensure the perfect consistency for your filling.
3. Prepare the filling: Mix the chopped broccoli, cheese, cream cheese, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cut a pocket in the chicken breasts: Carefully cut a pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Hold the chicken breast firmly on a cutting board while making the incision.
5. Stuff the chicken breasts: Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.

6. Sear the chicken breasts: Searing the chicken breasts in a hot skillet helps seal in moisture and creates a flavorful crust. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken, but be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
7. Bake the chicken: Bake until the thickest part of each breast reaches 165°F (74°C), about 10 to 15 minutes.

Meal Prep Tip: Prepare these a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How do I prevent the filling from falling out while cooking?

You don’t need to use toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts. Here are a few tips to keep the filling inside:

• Cut a deep pocket into each chicken breast (without cutting all the way through).
• Firmly pack the filling into the pockets.
• If any filling spills out during searing or baking, scoop it back in!

Serve these broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken breasts with rice pilaf and a refreshing spinach strawberry salad or wedge salad for a complete meal. Here are a few more side dish ideas:

• Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls
• Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
• Quinoa or couscous for a light and healthy grain option.
• A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Try these:

• French Onion Chicken
• Quick Bruschetta Chicken
• Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki and Veggies
• Cheesy Chicken Roulades with Pesto
• Chicken Milanese with Green Apple Salad
• Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
• Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
• Chicken Fajita Skewers
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken
• One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

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