Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a well-cooked chicken breast, especially when it’s stuffed with the delightful combination of broccoli and cheese! This broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast is one of my absolute favorites because it’s not only packed with flavor but also brings together that juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and tender broccoli in every single bite. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their eyes lit up as they cut into the chicken and saw that gooey cheese oozing out. It’s the kind of meal that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone batting an eye. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation!
Ingredients List
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because you want that oven nice and hot to perfectly cook your chicken.
- Next, let’s steam the broccoli! In a pot with a steamer basket or just a microwave-safe bowl with a bit of water, steam those gorgeous broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green. You want them to retain their crunch!
- While the broccoli is steaming, grab a mixing bowl and combine it with the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s a creamy, cheesy delight. Wow, the smell is fantastic already!
- Now, take your chicken breasts and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each one. Be gentle here; you don’t want to cut all the way through. Just enough to create a nice little pocket for our tasty filling!
- Stuff each chicken breast with that delicious broccoli and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown. This step adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor!
- Once they’re seared, it’s time to transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You can use a meat thermometer—trust me, it’s worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with gooey cheese and tender broccoli, it’s a delicious way to enjoy chicken.
- Low-fat option that still feels indulgent—who doesn’t love that?
- One dish means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!
- Great for meal prep—make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Kid-friendly! The cheese and chicken combo is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile—swap in different cheeses or add your favorite spices for a personalized touch!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast, which makes it a fantastic choice for a hearty yet healthy meal:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 32g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But trust me, with all that protein and those veggies, you’ll feel satisfied and nourished after enjoying this dish!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips for success that I’ve learned over the years:
- Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to cram as much filling as possible into those chicken pockets, be careful not to overstuff! If they’re too full, the filling might burst out while cooking. A generous amount is great, but leave a little room.
- Use a meat thermometer: Trust me, this little gadget is a game changer! Cooking chicken to the right temperature (165°F or 75°C) ensures it’s safe to eat and juicy. No one wants dry chicken, right?
- Let the chicken rest: Once your chicken comes out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful. You won’t regret this step!
- Season well: Don’t skimp on seasoning! A sprinkle of salt and pepper on the outside of the chicken before searing can elevate the flavor of the entire dish. It’s all about those layers of taste!
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix things up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or maybe a splash of lemon juice for brightness. This dish is versatile—let your creativity shine!
- Choose the right pan: When searing, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good, heavy-bottomed pan helps achieve that golden crust while cooking evenly. Searing is key, so don’t rush this step!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast that’ll impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Variations
One of the best things about the broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast is its versatility! You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Cheese Swap: While I love cheddar, you can mix it up with mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture, or go bold with pepper jack for a kick of spice! Crumbled feta adds a tangy twist, too!
- Add More Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. They bring color and a delightful texture!
- Spice It Up: Want to give it some heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You could also try some Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a flavor boost!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even thyme can elevate the flavor profile. Just chop them finely and mix them in with your filling for a fresh taste!
- Different Proteins: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try this stuffing in pork chops or even turkey breasts? The flavors will still sing beautifully!
- Stuffed Peppers: If you want to go a different route, use the same filling to stuff bell peppers instead of chicken. Bake them until tender for a fun twist on the original!
These variations keep the dish exciting and allow you to cater to your family’s preferences. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and make the recipe your own! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a truly delightful meal! The right sides can really enhance this dish and make your dinner feel special. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are the perfect comfort food to serve with your chicken. They soak up any extra cheese goodness, and who doesn’t love a good mash?
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds great flavor and nutrition to your plate. Toss them with a little olive oil and Italian herbs before roasting for extra yum!
- Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed chicken. It’s a great way to add some crunch and freshness!
- Quinoa or Rice: Fluffy quinoa or a flavorful pilaf is a fantastic base that complements the chicken nicely. You can even toss in some herbs or nuts for added texture and taste!
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a sprinkle of lemon juice and a bit of salt elevates the meal and adds a lovely pop of color. It’s simple yet sophisticated!
- Garlicky Breadsticks: If you’re in the mood for something a little indulgent, serve up some warm, garlicky breadsticks. They’re perfect for mopping up any melted cheese or sauces!
Mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. I love to create a colorful and balanced plate that satisfies everyone at the table. Enjoy your meal and the delightful flavors of your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast, you might have some leftovers, and that’s perfectly okay! Let me share the best way to store and reheat your tasty creation so it remains just as delicious as when it first came out of the oven.
To store leftovers, allow the stuffed chicken to cool down to room temperature. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. This way, they’ll stay fresh and free from any unwanted odors in the fridge. You can keep them stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If you want that cheesy goodness to melt a bit more, you can remove the foil for the last 5 minutes!
If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave. Just place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody likes rubbery chicken!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast just as much the next day as you did fresh out of the oven. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before using it in the filling. Fresh is great, but frozen works just fine if that’s what you have on hand!
What’s the best way to know when my chicken is done cooking?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer! You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat without being dried out. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to a day in advance, just keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed. It’s perfect for meal prep!
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of cream cheese. It’ll change the texture a bit, but it’ll still be delicious! Just make sure you blend it well with the other ingredients.
How should I store leftovers?
After your delicious meal, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or put them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave, just follow the tips I shared earlier!
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast: 7 Heartwarming Ways
- Całkowity Czas: 45 minutes
- Ustępować: 2 servings 1x
- Dieta: Z niską zawartością tłuszczu
Opis
A delicious chicken breast stuffed with broccoli and cheese.
Składniki
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instrukcje
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast.
- Stuff the mixture into the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Uwagi
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add more cheese if desired.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 30 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Course
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Kalorie: 350
- Cukier: 2g
- Sód: 600mg
- Kwasy: 20g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 8g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 5g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Słowa kluczowe: broccoli cheese stuffed chicken breast
