Introduction to Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
I know finding the perfect dinner recipe can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why I’m excited to share my Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken with you! This dish is a delightful way to bring the family together over a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken and a creamy broccoli filling is sure to impress your loved ones. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is both easy to make and delicious — making it a go-to in my kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a winner in my home for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great solution for busy days. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser—who can resist juicy chicken filled with cheesy goodness? Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful dish that looks like you slaved away for hours, but in reality, it takes only about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken so delightful! Each one plays a key role in crafting that perfect harmonious flavor and texture.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of the show. They’re tender and juicy, making them perfect for stuffing with our delicious filling.
- Salt: A touch of salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and filling. It’s a must-have in any savory dish.
- Smoked paprika: This seasoning adds a hint of warmth and smokiness that elevates the dish’s overall flavor.
- Garlic powder: Adding garlic powder brings that savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, it provides a subtle savory sweetness that makes each bite tantalizing.
- Black pepper: A sprinkle of black pepper adds just the right amount of heat and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Broccoli florets: These vibrant green pieces not only provide nutritional benefits but also add a lovely crunch and color to our filling.
- Red bell pepper: Adding a bit of sweetness and color, these diced pieces brighten up the dish and complement the broccoli.
- Colby-jack cheese: This melty cheese is perfect for stuffing due to its smooth texture and fantastic flavor. You can also swap it for your favorite cheese!
- Mayonnaise: Just a couple of tablespoons help bind everything together, lending creaminess to the filling.
- Olive oil: This is used for searing the chicken, providing a lovely golden crust and enhancing the flavors.
For exact measurements of these ingredients, be sure to check the bottom of the article where I’ve included a printable version!
How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Chicken Breasts
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This crucial step ensures that your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken cooks evenly. While the oven heats up, take your large boneless skinless chicken breasts and make a pocket in each one. Use a sharp paring knife to cut along the side, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently widen the pockets with your fingers. This is where all that delicious filling will go, so the deep pockets are essential!
Mix the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mixing these spices together not only enhances the flavor of the chicken, but it also adds depth to the entire dish. This seasoning blend is key, so don’t skip this step! It ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Prepare the Broccoli and Cheese Filling
In another medium bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, shredded colby-jack cheese, and mayonnaise. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to break up the broccoli too much; you want those lovely florets noticeable in the filling! This blend is what makes your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken so creamy and satisfying.
Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Time to fill those chicken pockets! Grab one of the prepared chicken breasts and spoon a quarter of the broccoli mixture inside. Don’t be afraid to be generous; just make sure to not overfill, as you want to close the pocket securely. Use 2 to 3 toothpicks to secure the open side, keeping the delicious stuffing from escaping during cooking. Repeat this with the remaining chicken breasts, ensuring each one is bursting with flavor.
Sear the Stuffed Chicken
Next, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add two stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re lightly browned. This step is crucial because it creates a flavorful crust that locks in moisture. Remember, you want that beautiful golden color on the outside, so sear in batches if needed!
Bake the Chicken
After searing, place all the browned chicken breasts back in the skillet. Cover the skillet with foil to keep the moisture in, and transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for about 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This baking step ensures the chicken is cooked through while keeping everything juicy and flavorful!
Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender. Carefully remove the toothpicks before plating your masterpiece. Serve with a lovely side salad or some roasted veggies for a vibrant dinner experience!
Tips for Success
- Always pat the broccoli dry after blanching to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Feel free to substitute colby-jack cheese with your favorite cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella.
- Prepare the filling a day ahead to save time during meal prep.
- Use kitchen twine instead of toothpicks for an elegant touch when securing the pockets.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly with olive oil and spices before stuffing.
Equipment Needed
- Sharp paring knife: Essential for creating pockets in the chicken. A good kitchen scissor can work in a pinch.
- Large oven-safe skillet: Perfect for searing and baking the chicken. If unavailable, any baking dish will do.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the filling and seasoning. You can use old pasta bowls or even a large measuring cup.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Used to secure the stuffed chicken. If you don’t have toothpicks, just kitchen twine will do!
Variations
- Add cooked quinoa or rice to the filling for extra substance and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Substitute the broccoli with spinach or kale for a different green veggie option.
- Try swapping colby-jack cheese with feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor twist.
- Make it a Mediterranean delight by adding sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken with a light side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh touch.
- Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make a beautiful and nutritious side.
- Consider serving with a glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
- For an elegant presentation, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.
FAQs about Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
As a passionate home cook, I often get questions about my Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. Here are some common inquiries and their answers to help you out!
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before using it in the filling. This will help keep your chicken from becoming soggy.
What can I serve with Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even some fluffy rice. These sides will enhance your meal and balance out the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the chicken breasts a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. It makes for a quick and easy dinner!
What should I do if I don’t have toothpicks?
No problem at all! You can use kitchen twine to secure the chicken pockets. Just tie them gently to avoid tearing the chicken apart.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This will ensure it’s juicy and safe to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just a task; it’s an opportunity to create memories and share heartfelt moments with loved ones. My Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken encapsulates that spirit, bringing joy to the dinner table with each delicious bite. It’s fulfilling to see my family’s faces light up, knowing I’ve created something they love and enjoy. Plus, the ease of making this dish allows me to savor those special moments rather than stress in the kitchen. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home as it is in mine!
Print
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying recipe featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful broccoli and cheese mixture, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 2 ¼ pounds)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups small-diced broccoli florets (~½-inch pieces), blanched and patted dry
- ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups shredded colby-jack cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Cut a pocket lengthwise into the side of each chicken breast using a sharp paring knife, being careful not to cut all the way through. Gently use your fingers to widen the pockets. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Set the seasoning blend aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, colby-jack cheese, mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of the reserved seasoning blend. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the broccoli florets.
- Fill each chicken breast pocket with a quarter of the broccoli mixture. Secure with 2-3 toothpicks per chicken breast to keep the filling in place.
- Use the remaining seasoning blend to sprinkle evenly over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Preheat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sear two stuffed chicken breasts at a time for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining two chicken breasts.
- Place all browned chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover with foil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Remove the toothpicks carefully before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the broccoli dry to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- You can substitute colby-jack cheese with any cheese of your choice.
- To save time, you can prepare the filling ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
