Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Recipe with Tips and FAQs
Broccoli Cheddar stuffed chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a gourmet feel without requiring hours in the kitchen. Below, you’ll find the recipe, some useful tips, and answers to common questions to help you create this delicious meal with ease.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Carefully slice each breast horizontally, creating a pocket for the filling. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the broccoli-cheddar mixture into each chicken breast, dividing the filling evenly. Use toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts if needed.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe, as it adds a nice texture and flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use thawed frozen broccoli. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture.
- Prevent Overstuffing: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to leak out during cooking. You want enough filling to flavor the chicken but not so much that it overflows.
- Seal with Toothpicks: Using toothpicks to secure the chicken breasts helps keep the filling inside during cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Finish with a Broil: For an extra golden and crispy top, you can broil the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, simply sear and bake as directed.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave the chicken, but it may not be as crispy.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
4. What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread or pasta for a more filling meal.
5. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes! You can cook the stuffed chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Broccoli Cheddar stuffed chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for company. With its rich, cheesy filling and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.