Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts

These easy Stuffed Chicken Breasts with chopped broccoli and cheddar cheese look fancy but are actually quite easy to make. Delicious, full of flavor, a fun restaurant-style meal at home.

You won’t believe that these Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are actually easy to make at home! They are crispy on the outside with the most delicious creamy broccoli filling.

It’s winter and that means less grilling and more oven-cooking. That’s not to say we don’t grill in the winter, we do, but just not every day like it seems like we do in the summer! While grilled chicken is one of my favorite things to eat on a hot summer day, I also like chicken a lot of other ways too, especially stuffed!

The great thing about this cheesy broccoli stuffed chicken breast recipe is that it only takes about 45 minutes in total and that includes cutting, stuffing, searing, and baking the chicken.

It’s also super versatile (more on that below) and works great for a crowd too. Serve alongside a wild rice mix or with some roasted veggies that can roast right alongside the chicken for a quick and healthy meal that’s great for weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a gourmet-style meal without the hassle. It’s quick, taking only about 45 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy broccoli filling makes it a family favorite that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 cup reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup low fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and water, sauté until the broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and make a pocket in each breast by cutting a slit horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese mixture, then secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Season the outside of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
7. In the same skillet, sear the stuffed chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the broccoli is chopped finely so it fits well inside the chicken breasts.
• Don’t overfill the chicken to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
• Use toothpicks to keep the chicken breasts closed while baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the broccoli mixture. You could also substitute the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving provides a good source of protein and fiber, with reduced fat content due to the use of low-fat cheese and cream cheese. Enjoy this tasty meal without the guilt!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just thaw and drain it well before using.

What can I serve with this dish? This chicken pairs well with a side of wild rice or roasted vegetables.

Can I prepare this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Quick, delicious, and wholesome, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!