The Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a savory and wholesome dish that combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a broccoli filling. This recipe elevates the simple chicken breast to a delightful meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this stuffed chicken is not only flavorful but also presents beautifully on any table. Having made this dish myself, I can confirm it’s a crowd-pleaser, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, with each bite delivering a burst of cheesy broccoli alongside perfectly seasoned chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 250 grams chopped broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon water (for steaming broccoli)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 minced garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
How To Make Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Steam the Broccoli: Finely chop the broccoli florets and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with about 1 tablespoon of water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, taking care not to cut all the way through. Season both sides of the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, low-fat cream cheese, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Chicken: Divide the broccoli-cheese mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, stuffing it into the pockets. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Brown the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken warm with your choice of side dishes, such as a fresh salad, garlic green beans, mushroom rice, mashed or roasted potatoes, couscous, or quinoa.
Recipe Tips:
- Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking. You can pound them slightly if necessary.
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing to ensure it remains juicy.
- Removing Toothpicks: Don’t forget to remove all toothpicks before serving to avoid any accidents.
FAQ Section
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking.
- What if I don’t have a microwave to steam the broccoli?
- You can steam the broccoli on the stove in a steamer basket over boiling water for a few minutes until tender.
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, thawed frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Make sure to drain any excess water after steaming.
- How do I know when the chicken is done?
- The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a versatile and delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet healthy. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a perfect meal for any day of the week, and it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in a delicious way. Enjoy crafting this dish and sharing it with your loved ones!