When it comes to wholesome, hearty meals, the combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese is a timeless favorite. This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe elevates these everyday ingredients into a delectable dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

With a simple blend of seasonings, a flavorful filling, and a quick sear in the skillet followed by a gentle bake in the oven, this recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting and satisfying dish.

Creating these Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts requires just a handful of essential ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts:

  • Begin with four large chicken breasts, ensuring they are boneless and skinless for ease of stuffing.

2. Seasonings:

  • Elevate the flavor profile with a blend of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika, enhancing both the chicken and the filling.

3. Olive Oil:

  • Olive oil serves a dual purpose: drizzling over the chicken to lock in moisture and providing a light sear in the skillet.

4. Broccoli:

  • Two cups of chopped broccoli, cut into smaller pieces, form the nutritious and vibrant filling.

5. Cheese Duo:

  • A harmonious blend of shredded cheddar cheese and softened cream cheese adds a rich and creamy element to the filling.

6. Garlic:

  • A clove of minced garlic infuses the filling with a delightful touch of garlic flavor.

7. Salt and Pepper:

Follow these simple steps to create Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts:

1. Seasoning the Chicken:

  • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Begin by combining the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika in a small dish. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are coated evenly. Rub the seasoning mixture onto the chicken, making sure it covers every inch.

2. Preparing the Filling:

  • In a separate bowl, prepare the filling by mixing the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This filling will be the heart of your stuffed chicken.

3. Creating Pockets:

  • Carefully cut a wide pocket into each chicken breast, being cautious not to slice all the way through. These pockets will be where you stuff your flavorful mixture.

4. Filling the Chicken:

  • Stuff each chicken breast with a generous portion of the broccoli and cheese mixture. This step adds layers of taste and texture to the dish.

5. Searing and Baking:

  • Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side to achieve a beautiful golden color. While the chicken won’t be fully cooked at this stage, the searing locks in flavors and moisture. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to sear in two batches. After searing, place all four breasts in the skillet and transfer it to the oven.

6. Baking to Perfection:

  • Bake for approximately 25-35 minutes or until the chicken breasts are cooked through. This oven finish ensures that the chicken remains tender and the filling melts into a creamy perfection.

The Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please both the cook and the diners. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a gourmet experience.

The tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese filling make for a balanced and satisfying meal that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re aiming for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes for a delicious and wholesome meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.