Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Dinner Win

Tender chicken breasts come alive with a creamy broccoli cheddar stuffing that turns an ordinary meal into something spectacular.

Melted cheese oozes from each juicy bite, creating a mouthwatering combination of protein and vegetable goodness.

The classic flavor pairing brings a comforting richness that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Sharp cheddar adds a tangy depth while broccoli contributes a fresh, green crunch to every slice.

This protein-packed dish delivers both nutrition and indulgence in one simple recipe.

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing chicken that promises to disappear from plates in record time.

Grab your skillet and get ready to impress with a meal that’s sure to become a new household favorite.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 402 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredient Guide for Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Lean, tender meat that provides a perfect canvas for stuffing, selecting fresh, high-quality breasts ensures juicy and flavorful results.

• Salt, Pepper: Fundamental flavor enhancers that bring out the chicken's natural taste.
• Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic depth and warmth to the overall dish.
• Paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky undertone and beautiful reddish color.
• Italian Seasoning: Infuses the chicken with a blend of herbal Mediterranean notes.

• Broccoli Florets: Crisp, nutritious vegetable that adds vibrant green color and wholesome texture to the chicken.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that creates a rich, indulgent filling with tangy flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: Provides smooth, creamy consistency that helps bind the filling and adds luxurious mouthfeel.

• Olive Oil: Healthy cooking oil that helps prevent sticking and promotes beautiful golden-brown exterior on the chicken.

Equipment Checklist for Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

• Cutting board: Sturdy surface for slicing chicken breasts safely.
• Sharp knife: Essential for creating clean pockets in chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining broccoli and cheese filling.
• Large ovenproof skillet: Key for searing and baking chicken in one pan.
• Meat thermometer: Crucial for checking chicken's internal temperature.
• Toothpicks: Helpful for securing stuffed chicken pockets.
• Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning measurements.

Instructions to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken at Home

• Chicken Preparation

Create a deep pocket in each chicken breast by carefully slicing through the middle without cutting completely through. This pocket will hold the delicious cheesy filling.

• Flavor Boost

Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning over the chicken to infuse it with mouthwatering taste and help tenderize the meat.

• Tasty Stuffing

Mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and a touch of garlic powder in a bowl. The combination creates a creamy, savory filling that will make your taste buds dance.

• Stuffing and Securing

Generously fill each chicken pocket with the broccoli-cheese mixture. Use toothpicks to seal the openings and prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.

• Searing and Baking

Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet and brown the stuffed chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15-17 minutes until the chicken is perfectly cooked.

• Final Check

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.

Flavor Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

• Cooking Tips & Variations
• Cheese Selection Swap: Experiment with different cheese varieties like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or gouda to create unique flavor profiles that complement the broccoli perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. This trick saves time and allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Crispy Coating Crunch: Roll the stuffed chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds before searing for an extra crispy exterior that adds delightful texture to each bite.
• Veggie Variety Boost: Mix in additional vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions to the broccoli-cheese filling for added nutrition and complex flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to reduce calories while maintaining the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

Best Serving Tips for Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

• Dinner Party Delight: Impress guests by serving these golden-brown stuffed chicken breasts on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh herb sprigs and lemon wedges.
• Hearty Side Companion: Pair the chicken with roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad to create a balanced, satisfying meal that complements the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Quick Weeknight Transformation: Transform leftovers into a delicious lunch by slicing the chicken and tossing it into a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, adding extra protein and excitement to your midday meal.
• Family-Style Feast: Create a cozy dinner experience by serving the stuffed chicken directly from the skillet, allowing everyone to dig in together and enjoy the bubbling, cheesy goodness straight from the oven.

Storing and Heating Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Leftovers

• Smart Storage Solutions
• Refrigerator Stash: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain optimal freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Wrap individual chicken portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place inside freezer-safe bags. These delicious meals can be frozen for 2-3 months, providing convenient future dinner options.
• Reheating Magic: Warm refrigerated chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to retain moisture and crispy exterior. Microwave reheating can make the chicken tough, so oven method is recommended for best texture.
• Meal Prep Brilliance: Prepare chicken breasts in advance during weekend cooking sessions. Stuff and season them, then store unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, making weeknight dinners stress-free and quick.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Succulent homemade broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken combines cheesy goodness with lean protein. Crisp exterior and melted interior create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large breasts)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup small chopped broccoli florets
• 0.25 cup cream cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Butterfly chicken breasts horizontally, creating a deep pocket while maintaining structural integrity for optimal stuffing.
2. Filling Creation: Combine broccoli florets, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a harmonious, smooth mixture that will infuse the chicken with rich, creamy flavor.
3. Seasoning: Massage exterior of chicken with paprika, Italian herbs, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper, ensuring comprehensive and even spice distribution.
4. Stuffing Process: Delicately fill chicken pockets with broccoli-cheese mixture, gently pressing to achieve uniform coverage without compromising meat integrity.
5. Securing: Stabilize chicken openings using toothpicks to prevent filling from escaping during cooking process.
6. Searing: Heat olive oil in cast-iron skillet over medium-high temperature until surface shimmers, then strategically place stuffed chicken breasts to develop a golden, crisp exterior.
7. Roasting: Transfer skillet directly into preheated 375°F oven, allowing chicken to roast for 15-17 minutes until perfectly cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Serving: Remove toothpicks, let chicken rest 3-4 minutes to allow juice redistribution, then plate and serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture.

Notes

• Butterfly with Care: Slice chicken breasts horizontally, creating a deep pocket without cutting through, ensuring secure stuffing and preventing filling leakage.
• Spice Massage Technique: Thoroughly rub seasonings into chicken’s exterior, allowing spices to penetrate and enhance overall flavor profile.
• Toothpick Pro Tip: Use toothpicks strategically to seal chicken pockets, preventing cheese mixture from escaping during cooking and maintaining a neat presentation.
• Temperature Check Crucial: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing both food safety and perfect doneness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 402
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 43 g
• Cholesterol: 112 mg