Description
Succulent chicken breasts embrace a creamy broccoli cheddar filling that promises comfort and flavor in each delightful bite. Rich cheese melts perfectly inside tender chicken, creating a satisfying main dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large breasts)
Filling:
- 1 cup small chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup cream cheese
Seasonings and Oil:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Butterfly each chicken breast by carefully slicing horizontally, creating a deep pocket while ensuring the sides remain intact for secure stuffing.
- Blend broccoli florets, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, remaining garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a smooth, cohesive filling mixture.
- Generously season chicken’s exterior with paprika, Italian herbs, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper, massaging spices into the meat.
- Gently pack the creamy broccoli-cheese mixture into each chicken pocket, pressing softly to distribute evenly without tearing the meat.
- Seal the chicken’s openings using toothpicks, preventing the filling from escaping during cooking.
- Warm olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Carefully place stuffed chicken breasts into the skillet, searing each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust develops.
- Transfer the skillet directly into a preheated 375°F oven, allowing the chicken to roast for 15-17 minutes.
- Verify doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest section, confirming an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove toothpicks before serving, letting the chicken rest for 3-4 minutes to redistribute internal juices.
Notes
- Chicken breasts work best when they’re similar in size for even cooking and consistent stuffing.
- Fresh broccoli provides more vibrant flavor and texture compared to frozen varieties.
- Cream cheese helps bind the filling and creates a smooth, creamy consistency inside the chicken pocket.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg