If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels both wholesome and indulgent, this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken breasts enveloping a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling that bursts with freshness and a perfect hint of garlic. Every bite delivers a fantastic contrast of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with ingredients that you probably already have on hand, each playing a key role in balancing taste, texture, and aroma. From the flavorful seasoning that coats the chicken to the creamy cheese filling studded with fresh broccoli, every component comes together beautifully.

Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and bite.
Onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and earthy note to the seasoning.
Garlic powder: Intensifies the savory aroma of the chicken.
Ground paprika: Offers a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
Olive oil: Used for searing and roasting, it keeps the chicken juicy and golden.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for the rich filling.
Broccoli florets: Chopped into small pieces to ensure tenderness and a lovely crunch inside the filling.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey, sharp richness that melts perfectly.
Cream cheese: Provides creaminess for a luscious, smooth filling consistency.
Minced garlic: Adds fresh, pungent depth directly into the filling.

How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust during baking. Meanwhile, mix kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika in a small dish to create a perfectly balanced seasoning blend. Drizzle two tablespoons of olive oil over your chicken breasts and rub the seasoning all over to infuse flavor deeply.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Next, prepare the delightful broccoli and cheese filling. In a bowl, mix together chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, room temperature cream cheese, and freshly minced garlic. Don’t forget to season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper. The cream cheese helps bind everything, while the cheddar and broccoli bring texture and sharpness that make each bite exciting.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Carefully slice a wide pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through—this step is key to holding in all that cheesy goodness. Then, stuff each pocket generously with the broccoli and cheese mixture. The filling should be substantial enough to ooze slightly when cooked but still hold its shape.

Step 4: Sear and Bake

Heat the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown, which locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust. Then transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25 to 35 minutes, or until thoroughly cooked. Your kitchen will start to fill with an irresistible aroma that promises an amazing meal.

How to Serve Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Garnishes

To add that final touch of freshness and color, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the chicken just before serving. This lively green garnish brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle, herbal note that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe shines when paired with sides that complement its rich flavors. Consider a simple garlic mashed potato or a light quinoa salad to balance the creaminess. Steamed or roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or a crisp green salad also make excellent companions for a well-rounded plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, slice the stuffed chicken breast crosswise to reveal the vibrant green and cheesy interior. Arrange the slices in a fan shape on each plate and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a light lemon butter sauce. This elevates the dish’s look and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might not last long), keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will meld even more, and reheating gently helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out the chicken.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months, making meal prep or last-minute dinners convenient and delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken moist and the cheese perfectly melted. Avoid using the microwave if possible to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for the filling?

While fresh broccoli provides the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it into the filling to avoid soggy chicken.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

A sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor and melts beautifully, but you can adjust the choice based on your preference. Mild or medium cheddar will work as well if you prefer a subtler taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken stuffed with filling ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge for several hours or overnight. When ready, sear and bake as instructed to enjoy fresh, hot chicken.

Is it possible to bake the chicken without searing first?

You can bake the chicken without searing, but searing adds a wonderful texture and flavor that enhances the final dish. If short on time, baking alone will still yield tasty results.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear and the chicken should feel firm but juicy to the touch.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is one of those delightful meals that manages to feel both special and totally achievable in your own kitchen. The blend of gooey cheese, fresh broccoli, and perfectly seasoned chicken is just irresistible. I promise, once you try it, this recipe will become a favorite for weeknight dinners and impressing guests alike. So go ahead and give it a whirl — your taste buds will thank you!

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

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3.9 from 61 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. The chicken is seasoned, seared to a golden brown, then baked to juicy perfection, offering a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground paprika
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Filling

2 cups chopped broccoli florets (smaller pieces)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 clove garlic, minced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat and Season: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small dish, combine 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon ground paprika. Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub them evenly with the seasoning mixture to ensure thorough flavor.
Make Filling: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups chopped broccoli florets, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, 6 ounces room temperature cream cheese, 1 minced garlic clove, and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
Stuff Chicken: Carefully cut a wide pocket into each boneless chicken breast without slicing all the way through. Stuff each pocket generously with the prepared broccoli and cheese filling, distributing it evenly among the four breasts.
Sear Chicken: Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps lock in juices and adds flavor.
Bake: Transfer the skillet with the seared stuffed chicken breasts into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Notes

Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing for easier blending.
Ensure not to cut all the way through the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked.
If an oven-safe skillet is not available, sear the chicken in a regular skillet and transfer the chicken to a baking dish for the oven step.
To reduce fat, substitute half the olive oil with a cooking spray and consider using low-fat cheddar cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American