Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas! Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, perfectly cooked chicken breast, only to be greeted by a molten, cheesy explosion of broccoli and cheddar. It’s comfort food elevated, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

While the exact origins of stuffing chicken breasts are a bit murky, the concept of combining protein with flavorful fillings has been around for centuries. Think of the classic French “cordon bleu” or even the humble chicken Kiev. This particular combination, however, feels distinctly modern American, playing on our love affair with broccoli cheddar soup and the desire for convenient, all-in-one meals.

What makes broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tender chicken breast provides a lean protein base, while the creamy, cheesy filling adds richness and indulgence. The broccoli not only contributes a pop of color and nutrients but also a subtle earthy flavor that complements the cheddar beautifully. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Forget complicated sauces and endless side dishes; this recipe delivers a complete and satisfying meal in one neat package. Get ready to impress your family (or yourself!) with this delicious and surprisingly simple dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken Breasts:

1. First, we need to prepare the chicken breasts so they’re ready to be stuffed. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly and makes them easier to roll. Be careful not to pound them too thin, or they might tear.
2. Once pounded, season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what gives the chicken its flavor!

Making the Broccoli Cheddar Filling:

1. Now, let’s get started on the delicious broccoli cheddar filling. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the finely chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. You want the broccoli to be cooked through but still have a little bite to it.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. This is important because we don’t want the heat to melt the cream cheese in the next step.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping), grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the cooked broccoli and carrot mixture to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good taste test and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more garlic powder or Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

Stuffing and Rolling the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay each seasoned chicken breast flat on a clean work surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 of the broccoli cheddar filling onto the center of each chicken breast. Spread the filling evenly, leaving about 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Carefully roll up each chicken breast, starting from one end. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling inside.
5. Secure each rolled chicken breast with toothpicks. Insert the toothpicks at an angle to hold the roll together tightly. You’ll probably need 2-3 toothpicks per chicken breast.

Baking the Stuffed Chicken:

1. Place the stuffed chicken breasts seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken breasts. This will create a nice, cheesy crust as they bake.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the filling.
4. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
5. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve the broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken with your favorite side dishes. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.
3. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed green beans or asparagus.
4. The stuffed chicken also pairs well with a creamy sauce, such as a cheese sauce or a mushroom sauce.
5. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the broccoli cheddar filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also stuff the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the chicken is cold.
• Add some spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broccoli cheddar filling.
• Use different cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack would all be delicious.
• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon would be a great addition to the broccoli cheddar filling.
• Use different vegetables: You can substitute other vegetables for the broccoli and carrots. Cauliflower, spinach, or mushrooms would all work well.
• Grilling option: You can also grill the stuffed chicken breasts. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Breadcrumb topping: For a crispy topping, sprinkle the stuffed chicken breasts with breadcrumbs before baking. Combine 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the chicken.
• Creamy sauce variation: After baking, you can top the chicken with a simple cream sauce. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce over the baked chicken.

Health Considerations:

• This recipe can be adapted to be healthier by using low-fat cream cheese and mayonnaise.
• You can also increase the amount of vegetables in the filling to add more nutrients.
• Consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs for the topping if you choose to add them.
• Baking the chicken instead of frying it helps to reduce the amount of fat in the dish.

Troubleshooting:

• Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also baste the chicken with a little olive oil or melted butter during baking to keep it moist.
• Filling is leaking out: Make sure you secure the chicken breasts tightly with toothpicks. You can also try chilling the stuffed chicken breasts in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to help the filling set.
• Cheese is not melting: Make sure you use a good quality shredded cheddar cheese. Some pre-shredded cheeses contain cellulose, which can prevent them from melting properly.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 40-45g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken!

Conclusion:

This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to jazz up your chicken routine and sneak in some extra veggies, this is the recipe you’ve been searching for. The combination of tender chicken breast, creamy cheddar cheese, and perfectly cooked broccoli creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. It’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, making it a winner in my book. But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack would add a unique twist. If you’re not a fan of broccoli (though I highly recommend giving it a try in this context!), you could substitute it with cauliflower, spinach, or even some sautéed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless! For serving suggestions, I love pairing this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken with a simple side salad and some roasted potatoes or quinoa. A light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the chicken perfectly. Alternatively, you could serve it with steamed green beans or asparagus for a lighter meal. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, a creamy mashed potato side would be absolutely divine. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the presentation! A sprinkle of paprika or chopped parsley adds a pop of color and visual appeal. You could even drizzle a little bit of melted butter over the top for an extra touch of richness. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s become a staple in my household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. It’s the perfect way to elevate a simple chicken breast into something truly special. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. I promise you won’t be disappointed. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite serving suggestions? What did your family think? Share your thoughts, photos, and any tips you have in the comments below. Let’s create a community of fellow food lovers who appreciate a good, easy, and delicious meal. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create! Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps others discover this amazing dish.

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