Description
A quick and easy recipe for juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy broccoli and cheese filling, ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and sneaking in veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, chopped broccoli, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined and creamy.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling.
- Spoon the cheese and broccoli mixture evenly inside each butterflied breast. Fold the chicken closed and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Lower heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 6-7 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, transfer to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid watery filling. Secure chicken with toothpicks if needed to keep filling inside. Check internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Butter can be added at the end for extra richness. Baking option: bake stuffed chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes if not searing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken br
- Calories: 410
- Sodium: 520
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 45
Keywords: broccoli cheese stuffed chicken, stuffed chicken breast, easy chicken dinner, quick chicken recipe, cheesy chicken, healthy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner