Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Delicious and Easy Meal

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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese The main stars of this dish are chicken breasts, broccoli, and cheese. The chicken serves as a tasty pocket for the filling. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli, but steaming it first gives the best results. The cheese adds a creamy and rich flavor that makes this dish a hit. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and black pepper to taste Seasonings bring your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken to life. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Paprika gives a hint of warmth. Olive oil helps with searing. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. This way, every bite is packed with flavor. - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a nice touch! If you need to swap ingredients, feel free to use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. You can also add spinach or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} To make the filling, start by mixing these ingredients in a bowl: - 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and black pepper to taste Stir well until everything combines into a creamy mixture. The broccoli adds a nice crunch, while the cheeses make it rich and tasty. Adjust seasoning to your taste. If you want more flavor, add a bit more garlic or paprika. When preparing the chicken, you need to create pockets in each breast. Start with 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Lay each breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through, as you want to keep the filling inside. Keep your hands clean and safe while working with raw chicken. Wash your hands before and after handling the chicken. It’s important to avoid cross-contamination. For cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This creates a nice crust. After searing, move the skillet to your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Resting the chicken after cooking is key. It helps keep the juices inside. When you slice into it right away, you lose moisture. I suggest letting it rest for about 5 minutes. This small step makes a big difference. For cooking times, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To boost flavor, try adding spices or herbs. A pinch of thyme or oregano can add depth. You might also consider a dash of cayenne for heat. Cheese melting is important too. For the best melt, use a mix of cheeses. Mozzarella provides stretch, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. Make sure to mix them well for even flavor. Choosing the right pan makes a difference. Use a heavy skillet for searing. Cast iron or stainless steel pans work best. They hold heat well and give a nice crust. Keep essential tools handy, like sharp knives and a cutting board. A meat thermometer is also a must. This tool ensures your chicken is cooked just right. Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. This will enhance the overall taste of your stuffed chicken. Secure with Toothpicks: If you're worried about the filling spilling out, use toothpicks to secure the openings of the chicken breasts before cooking. Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in the filling, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese in your stuffed chicken for fun. Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Cream cheese adds a rich texture, while gouda offers a smoky flavor. If you need dairy-free options, consider vegan cheese made from nuts. Adjust your cheese choice to fit your dietary needs and taste buds. Adding more veggies can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Spinach brings a nice color and taste. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Mushrooms provide a savory depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations. Different veggies create exciting contrasts and keep the dish fresh. You can cook this dish in different ways. Grilling gives a nice char and smoky flavor. Sear the chicken first, then finish it on the grill. If you prefer baking, follow the original recipe for a classic result. For a quicker option, use an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release. Each method brings out unique flavors in the dish. Store your leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh longer. You can enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing. To freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap each piece well in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, move the chicken to the fridge overnight to thaw. For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Check every minute until it’s warm. Choose the oven for better flavor and texture. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just remember to thaw it first. Drain any excess water after thawing. Then, chop the broccoli into small pieces. This helps the filling blend well. Frozen broccoli may be softer, so make sure to stir it well with the other ingredients. You can serve many tasty sides with this dish. Here are a few ideas: - Rice or quinoa for a healthy grain option - Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra greens - Garlic bread for a comforting touch - A fresh salad to add crunch and color These sides balance the richness of the chicken. To check if the chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. Make sure it does not touch the filling. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink. Always check this for safe eating. In this blog post, we explored how to make Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken. We covered the key ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese. We also looked at how to prepare, cook, and store this dish. Lastly, I shared tips for keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful. Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. You can change it up with different cheeses or veggies. Enjoy your cooking and share this recipe with others!

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Are you ready to transform your dinner routine? This Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an easy, delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that impresses everyone at the table. Stick with me as we explore each step, tips for juicy chicken, and fun variations to keep things fresh. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Cheesy Goodness: This recipe incorporates a delightful blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully, creating a rich and creamy filling that elevates the chicken to another level.
  2. Healthy Twist: With the addition of steamed broccoli, this dish not only tastes great but also packs in some nutritious greens, making it a healthier option for dinner.
  3. Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for both beginner cooks and busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
  4. Impressive Presentation: When garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it a fantastic choice for impressing guests at dinner parties.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

The main stars of this dish are chicken breasts, broccoli, and cheese. The chicken serves as a tasty pocket for the filling. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli, but steaming it first gives the best results. The cheese adds a creamy and rich flavor that makes this dish a hit.

Seasonings and Extras

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and black pepper to taste

Seasonings bring your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken to life. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Paprika gives a hint of warmth. Olive oil helps with searing. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. This way, every bite is packed with flavor.

Garnishes and Substitutes

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a nice touch! If you need to swap ingredients, feel free to use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. You can also add spinach or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Filling

To make the filling, start by mixing these ingredients in a bowl:

– 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and black pepper to taste

Stir well until everything combines into a creamy mixture. The broccoli adds a nice crunch, while the cheeses make it rich and tasty. Adjust seasoning to your taste. If you want more flavor, add a bit more garlic or paprika.

Preparing the Chicken

When preparing the chicken, you need to create pockets in each breast. Start with 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Lay each breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through, as you want to keep the filling inside.

Keep your hands clean and safe while working with raw chicken. Wash your hands before and after handling the chicken. It’s important to avoid cross-contamination.

Cooking the Chicken

For cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This creates a nice crust.

After searing, move the skillet to your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Juicy Chicken

Resting the chicken after cooking is key. It helps keep the juices inside. When you slice into it right away, you lose moisture. I suggest letting it rest for about 5 minutes. This small step makes a big difference. For cooking times, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Enhancing Flavor

To boost flavor, try adding spices or herbs. A pinch of thyme or oregano can add depth. You might also consider a dash of cayenne for heat. Cheese melting is important too. For the best melt, use a mix of cheeses. Mozzarella provides stretch, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. Make sure to mix them well for even flavor.

Equipment Recommendations

Choosing the right pan makes a difference. Use a heavy skillet for searing. Cast iron or stainless steel pans work best. They hold heat well and give a nice crust. Keep essential tools handy, like sharp knives and a cutting board. A meat thermometer is also a must. This tool ensures your chicken is cooked just right.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. This will enhance the overall taste of your stuffed chicken.
  2. Secure with Toothpicks: If you’re worried about the filling spilling out, use toothpicks to secure the openings of the chicken breasts before cooking.
  3. Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
  4. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in the filling, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.

Variations

Different Cheese Combinations

You can switch up the cheese in your stuffed chicken for fun. Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Cream cheese adds a rich texture, while gouda offers a smoky flavor. If you need dairy-free options, consider vegan cheese made from nuts. Adjust your cheese choice to fit your dietary needs and taste buds.

Additional Vegetables

Adding more veggies can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Spinach brings a nice color and taste. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Mushrooms provide a savory depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations. Different veggies create exciting contrasts and keep the dish fresh.

Cooking Method Variations

You can cook this dish in different ways. Grilling gives a nice char and smoky flavor. Sear the chicken first, then finish it on the grill. If you prefer baking, follow the original recipe for a classic result. For a quicker option, use an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release. Each method brings out unique flavors in the dish.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

Store your leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh longer. You can enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap each piece well in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, move the chicken to the fridge overnight to thaw.

Reheating Methods

For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.

You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Check every minute until it’s warm. Choose the oven for better flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just remember to thaw it first. Drain any excess water after thawing. Then, chop the broccoli into small pieces. This helps the filling blend well. Frozen broccoli may be softer, so make sure to stir it well with the other ingredients.

What can I serve with Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken?

You can serve many tasty sides with this dish. Here are a few ideas:

– Rice or quinoa for a healthy grain option

– Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra greens

– Garlic bread for a comforting touch

– A fresh salad to add crunch and color

These sides balance the richness of the chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

To check if the chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. Make sure it does not touch the filling. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink. Always check this for safe eating.

In this blog post, we explored how to make Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken. We covered the key ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese. We also looked at how to prepare, cook, and store this dish. Lastly, I shared tips for keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. You can change it up with different cheeses or veggies. Enjoy your cooking and share this recipe with other

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese The main stars of this dish are chicken breasts, broccoli, and cheese. The chicken serves as a tasty pocket for the filling. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli, but steaming it first gives the best results. The cheese adds a creamy and rich flavor that makes this dish a hit. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and black pepper to taste Seasonings bring your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken to life. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Paprika gives a hint of warmth. Olive oil helps with searing. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. This way, every bite is packed with flavor. - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a nice touch! If you need to swap ingredients, feel free to use different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. You can also add spinach or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} To make the filling, start by mixing these ingredients in a bowl: - 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and black pepper to taste Stir well until everything combines into a creamy mixture. The broccoli adds a nice crunch, while the cheeses make it rich and tasty. Adjust seasoning to your taste. If you want more flavor, add a bit more garlic or paprika. When preparing the chicken, you need to create pockets in each breast. Start with 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Lay each breast flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through, as you want to keep the filling inside. Keep your hands clean and safe while working with raw chicken. Wash your hands before and after handling the chicken. It’s important to avoid cross-contamination. For cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This creates a nice crust. After searing, move the skillet to your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Resting the chicken after cooking is key. It helps keep the juices inside. When you slice into it right away, you lose moisture. I suggest letting it rest for about 5 minutes. This small step makes a big difference. For cooking times, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). To boost flavor, try adding spices or herbs. A pinch of thyme or oregano can add depth. You might also consider a dash of cayenne for heat. Cheese melting is important too. For the best melt, use a mix of cheeses. Mozzarella provides stretch, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. Make sure to mix them well for even flavor. Choosing the right pan makes a difference. Use a heavy skillet for searing. Cast iron or stainless steel pans work best. They hold heat well and give a nice crust. Keep essential tools handy, like sharp knives and a cutting board. A meat thermometer is also a must. This tool ensures your chicken is cooked just right. Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. This will enhance the overall taste of your stuffed chicken. Secure with Toothpicks: If you're worried about the filling spilling out, use toothpicks to secure the openings of the chicken breasts before cooking. Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in the filling, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese in your stuffed chicken for fun. Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Cream cheese adds a rich texture, while gouda offers a smoky flavor. If you need dairy-free options, consider vegan cheese made from nuts. Adjust your cheese choice to fit your dietary needs and taste buds. Adding more veggies can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Spinach brings a nice color and taste. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. Mushrooms provide a savory depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations. Different veggies create exciting contrasts and keep the dish fresh. You can cook this dish in different ways. Grilling gives a nice char and smoky flavor. Sear the chicken first, then finish it on the grill. If you prefer baking, follow the original recipe for a classic result. For a quicker option, use an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release. Each method brings out unique flavors in the dish. Store your leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh longer. You can enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing. To freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap each piece well in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, move the chicken to the fridge overnight to thaw. For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Check every minute until it’s warm. Choose the oven for better flavor and texture. Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just remember to thaw it first. Drain any excess water after thawing. Then, chop the broccoli into small pieces. This helps the filling blend well. Frozen broccoli may be softer, so make sure to stir it well with the other ingredients. You can serve many tasty sides with this dish. Here are a few ideas: - Rice or quinoa for a healthy grain option - Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra greens - Garlic bread for a comforting touch - A fresh salad to add crunch and color These sides balance the richness of the chicken. To check if the chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. Make sure it does not touch the filling. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink. Always check this for safe eating. In this blog post, we explored how to make Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken. We covered the key ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese. We also looked at how to prepare, cook, and store this dish. Lastly, I shared tips for keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful. Making this dish can be fun and rewarding. You can change it up with different cheeses or veggies. Enjoy your cooking and share this recipe with others!

Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken

Delicious chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of broccoli and cheeses, baked to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's ready for baking.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped steamed broccoli, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, along with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the filling is creamy and all ingredients are well blended.
  • Take each chicken breast and lay it flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each breast, making sure not to cut all the way through to the other side.
  • Spoon the cheesy broccoli filling generously into each chicken pocket. If needed, secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown color.
  • After searing, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer it directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Once the chicken is done, carefully take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing.
  • For a vibrant finish, garnish the stuffed chicken breasts with freshly chopped parsley just before serving, adding a delightful touch of color and flavor.

Notes

Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Keyword broccoli, cheese, chicken, stuffed chicken

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