Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken with creamy, cheesy goodness. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a surefire hit at any dinner table. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delicious meal, enticing everyone to gather around.
This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where we’d indulge in hearty dishes filled with love and laughter. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken promises to deliver a delicious experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- A rich flavor profile blends savory chicken with creamy broccoli and cheese
- It looks stunning on the plate, making it ideal for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or even be enjoyed on its own!
Ingredients for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; they should be thick enough to stuff but not too thick to cook evenly.
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets; they should be tender but still crisp for the best texture in your filling.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor; it melts beautifully into the broccoli filling.
- Garlic Powder: This adds a flavorful kick; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the filling; fresh ground pepper enhances flavor beautifully.
For the Sauce:
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling on top before baking; it adds richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine chopped fresh broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. Spoon generous amounts of the broccoli mixture into each pocket. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure them closed.
Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over them for added moisture during cooking.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The cheese will bubble up nicely as it cooks.
Step 6: Serve with Pan Juices
Transfer stuffed chicken to plates and drizzle with any pan juices for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your masterpiece!
Now that you’ve mastered Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, let’s take a moment to appreciate how delightful it is when flavors meld together perfectly. You might just find yourself creating excuses to make this dish again—perhaps even inviting friends over just so you can show off your culinary prowess!
You Must Know
- This delightful Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a flavor explosion that makes dinner exciting
- You can adjust the ingredients based on your pantry’s contents
- The vibrant green broccoli against the golden cheese will brighten any dinner table
- Ideal for baking but versatile enough to grill or pan-sear
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to get that golden crust, then prepare your broccoli and cheese filling while it cooks. Once done, stuff the chicken and bake until perfectly cooked through. This sequence not only saves time but ensures juicy, flavorful results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or kale if you’re feeling adventurous! Add some garlic powder or crushed red pepper for a spicy kick, or even throw in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Make it yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and delightful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pound your chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact, especially with your cheese and broccoli
- Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking; it keeps it tender and juicy
Cooking this dish always reminds me of that time my best friend tried to impress her boyfriend with a fancy dinner. She made this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, and let’s just say he couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
To make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, gather fresh chicken breasts, broccoli florets, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You will also need olive oil for cooking. Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor of this dish. Combining the creamy cheese with vibrant broccoli creates a delicious filling that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
How long does it take to cook Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
Cooking Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Start by preparing your chicken and stuffing it with the broccoli mixture. Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for about 5 minutes on each side, then transfer it to the oven for an additional 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. However, be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheese. Frozen broccoli can be a convenient option if you are short on time. Just keep in mind that fresh broccoli may provide a better texture and flavor in the final dish.
What sides pair well with Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken?
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for balance. Rice pilaf or quinoa also complements the flavors well. These sides enhance your meal while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Conclusion for Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken :
In conclusion, Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy cheese filling packed with nutritious broccoli. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will love. Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your regular dinner rotation!
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich filling of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and promises to impress family and guests alike. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- 2. In a bowl, mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Stuff generously with the broccoli mixture and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- 4. Place in the baking dish and drizzle olive oil over the top.
- 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and cheese is bubbly.
- 6. Serve warm, drizzled with pan juices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
