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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breast

creamy broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy 30-minute dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of cheddar cheese and finely chopped broccoli, seasoned with garlic and smoked paprika.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  3. Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Slice horizontally through the thickest part to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Pound uneven breasts to about ½ inch thickness if needed.
  4. Spoon about ¼ cup of the broccoli cheddar mixture into each pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed.
  5. Lightly season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  6. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Do not overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent filling leakage. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking. Rest chicken after baking to keep it juicy. If filling browns too fast, tent with foil. Frozen broccoli must be thawed and drained well. Can substitute cheeses or greens for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken breast, stuffed chicken, broccoli cheddar, easy dinner, quick recipe, cheesy chicken, healthy dinner, low carb, gluten free