Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts

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Imagine biting into a juicy chicken breast, crispy on the outside and oozing with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. These Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts offer a delightful twist to your usual chicken dinner, bringing a touch of restaurant-style elegance to your home kitchen with surprisingly little effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. The chicken breasts are crisp on the outside while the inside is filled with a luscious mixture of broccoli and cheese, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. Not only is it quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish, but it’s also versatile and ideal for serving a crowd. Pair it with a side of wild rice or roasted veggies for a complete, healthy meal that’s perfect for weeknights.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Sharp knife
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Large bowl
• Cast iron or oven-safe pan
• Aluminum foil
• Toothpicks (optional)

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 tbsp water
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. To steam broccoli: Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces. Place in a microwave-safe bowl with about 2 tablespoons of water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, steam on the stove-top or blanch in boiling water for 1 minute.
2. Use a sharp knife to slice each chicken breast horizontally to form a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, garlic, cheeses, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture evenly into each chicken breast and secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large cast iron or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Cover with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Secure the filling well with toothpicks to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different taste.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is high in protein and provides a good dose of vitamins from the broccoli. It’s a balanced meal option that can be part of a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken breasts with the stuffing and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken breasts? Yes, once cooked, they can be frozen and reheated in the oven when ready to eat.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Try this recipe and let the flavors speak for themselves. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so be sure to share your experience in the comments!

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