Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a nutritious boost. The crispy sear and tender texture of the chicken beautifully complement the savory filling, making every bite a culinary delight.
Ingredients
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups chopped broccoli cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 clove garlic minced
- A dash of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring an even coating. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken to ensure full coverage.
- Next, combine the filling ingredients—chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper—in a separate bowl, mixing thoroughly.
- Carefully cut a wide pocket in each chicken breast, taking care not to slice all the way through.
- Fill each chicken breast with the prepared filling mixture, packing it in gently.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the stuffed chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, but do not cook them completely. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, you may need to work in two batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- After searing, place all four stuffed breasts in the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Notes
Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).