Description
This best broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and chopped broccoli. The chicken is first seared to lock in the flavor and then baked to perfection, resulting in a deliciously cheesy and nutritious meal perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Filling
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Cut Chicken Pockets: Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each chicken breast pocket evenly with the prepared broccoli cheese mixture, ensuring the filling remains inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each side to develop flavor and seal in juices.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Place the seared stuffed chicken breasts into a baking dish, arranging them so they cook evenly.
- Bake: Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken pockets are not cut too deep to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Use fresh broccoli for a crisp texture, or lightly steam it before mixing to soften.
- Internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain moisture and juiciness.
