Description
This delightful Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of broccoli, cheddar, and cream cheese, seasoned to perfection and baked to golden, tender perfection. Perfect for a wholesome, comforting meal that combines protein and veggies in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground paprika
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Filling:
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (smaller pieces)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small dish, mix together kosher salt, ground black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts and evenly rub the seasoning mixture onto each piece for flavorful chicken.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy and tasty filling.
- Stuff Chicken: Carefully cut a wide pocket in each chicken breast, avoiding slicing all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the broccoli and cheese mixture, making sure the filling is well-contained inside.
- Sear and Bake: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear each stuffed chicken breast on both sides until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Notes
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely.
- Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overfill chicken breasts to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
