Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices. Seared to golden perfection and baked in the oven, this dish offers a delicious and healthy main course that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Stuffing
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Other
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the chicken thoroughly once seared.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through to keep the filling inside.
- Mix Stuffing: In a bowl, combine finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, and the optional Dijon mustard. Mix well to blend all the flavors.
- Stuff Chicken Breasts: Fill each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden-brown color.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
Notes
- For a softer broccoli texture, steam the broccoli florets for 1–2 minutes before mixing with the cheese.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder flavor profile.
