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Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 21 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 21 minutes
  • Total Time: 31 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a delightful mixture of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and creamy mayonnaise. The chicken is first seasoned and seared on the stovetop to form a golden crust, then baked to juicy perfection in the oven. Perfect for a nutritious and flavorful weeknight dinner, this dish combines wholesome ingredients in a satisfying way that kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika

Filling

  • 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
  • ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

For Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the side to create a pocket, being careful not to slice all the way through. If some chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them gently to about 1 inch thickness to ensure even cooking. Season each chicken breast evenly with salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika on both sides and inside the pocket.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Stir well until all ingredients are incorporated. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the chicken.
  3. Stuff and Secure: Carefully spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each pocket of the chicken breasts. If necessary, secure the openings with toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Once the oil is hot, place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.
  5. Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared, stuffed chicken breasts directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through and the filling is hot.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bite. Remove toothpicks carefully before serving.

Notes

  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer the stuffed breasts to a baking dish for the oven step.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely without overcooking.
  • You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
  • Feel free to add spices like onion powder or Italian seasoning to the filling for extra flavor variety.
  • If fresh broccoli is not available, you can use frozen broccoli florets but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/broccoli-cheddar-stuffed-chicken-breast-recipe/