Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garlic. Seared to a golden brown and then baked to perfection, these flavorful stuffed chicken breasts make a delicious and satisfying main course perfect for any dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Stuffing
- 1 cup broccoli florets (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for the filling without cutting all the way through. Season both sides and the inside of the pockets with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy stuffing mixture.
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Divide the broccoli and cheese filling evenly and stuff each chicken breast pocket tightly with the mixture.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the filling is hot and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices before serving.
Notes
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the spices stick better.
- Flatten the thicker parts of the chicken breasts lightly with a meat mallet to ensure even cooking.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother stuffing consistency.
- Allow the chicken to rest after baking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
