1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
- Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
- Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Skillet:
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
- Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar size and thickness for even cooking.
- Secure Well: Use enough toothpicks or kitchen twine to securely close the chicken breasts and prevent the filling from leaking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy meat.
Variations to Try
- Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the filling for extra flavor.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy chicken and flavorful filling, it’s sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken lies in properly butterflying the chicken, securing the filling well, and ensuring it’s cooked to the right internal temperature. By following this guide, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken!