Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken: An Elegant Yet Easy Dinner

Introduction

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this impressive Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken – a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Imagine juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy broccoli and cheese filling, then baked to golden perfection. This dish transforms basic ingredients into something extraordinary, delivering protein and veggies in every flavorful bite.

Why This Stuffed Chicken Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

Looks fancy, easy to make – impressive enough for company
All-in-one meal – protein and veggies together
Customizable fillings – adapt with your favorite ingredients
Meal-prep friendly – reheats beautifully

The magic happens when the cheesy filling melts inside the chicken, keeping it incredibly moist while creating a beautiful presentation when sliced.

Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Perfection

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Broccoli Cheese Filling

• 1 cup small broccoli florets (finely chopped)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp onion powder

Chef’s Tip: Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Prepare the Filling

1. Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain
2. In bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, mustard, and spices
3. Fold in chopped broccoli

2. Stuff the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Make a pocket in each chicken breast (see technique below)
3. Divide filling among breasts (about ¼ cup each)
4. Secure with toothpicks

3. Bake to Perfection

1. Place chicken in baking dish
2. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with seasonings
3. Bake 25-30 minutes until 165°F internal temp
4. Broil 2 minutes for golden top

4. Rest and Serve

1. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing
2. Remove toothpicks carefully

Professional Techniques for Best Results

Butterfly cut: Slice horizontally without cutting through
Chill filling 15 minutes for easier stuffing
Use meat thermometer for perfect doneness
Add lemon zest to filling for brightness

Serving Suggestions

Elegant Presentation:

• Slice diagonally to show off filling
• Drizzle with pan juices
• Garnish with fresh herbs

Perfect Pairings:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted carrots
• Crisp white wine

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overstuffing (filling will leak out)
Underseasoning the chicken
Skipping the toothpicks (helps seal)
Overcooking (dries out chicken)

Creative Variations

For Different Tastes:

• Spinach-artichoke: Substitute filling
• Mushroom-Swiss: Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese
• Spicy version: Add jalapeños to filling

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water first.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate 3-4 days – reheat gently.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Stuff chicken, refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What if my chicken is thin?
A: Pound slightly to even thickness before stuffing.

Conclusion

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken proves that elegant dinners don’t require complicated techniques. With its golden exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite that feels special enough for any occasion.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken: An Elegant Yet Easy Dinner

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 35 mins

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Description

Elevate your dinner with this delicious Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a creamy broccoli and cheese mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s a delightful and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

 

Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.

 

Butterfly the chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.

 

Stuff the chicken: Divide the broccoli and cheese mixture into four equal parts. Stuff each chicken breast with the mixture, then secure with toothpicks if needed.

 

Season the chicken: Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

 

Sear the chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

 

Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

 

Serve: Remove the toothpicks and serve the stuffed chicken breasts hot.

 

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Notes

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.