Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I love making Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken breasts filled with fresh broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. This dish is not only flavorful but also packs in the nutrients from the veggies. Whether I’m serving it for a cozy family dinner or a more elegant gathering, this recipe always impresses. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some greens into my meal without anyone noticing!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:14:27.708Z

When I first tried making Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a flavorful dish. I made sure to sauté the broccoli with garlic and onion before adding it to the chicken, and it made all the difference. This step enhances the flavors, giving the dish a beautiful depth!

One key tip I learned is to pound the chicken breast to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. This way, every bite is juicy and tender, letting the delicious filling take center stage and providing a satisfying texture with every bite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Mouthwatering combination of broccoli and creamy cheddar
Juicy chicken that’s both satisfying and healthy
Perfect for meal prep and family dinners

Key Techniques for Perfectly Stuffed Chicken

When preparing the chicken breasts, it’s crucial to pound them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. This not only helps the chicken cook faster but also makes it easier to stuff without tearing. A sturdy meat mallet is ideal; aim for an even thickness of around 1/2 inch. If you don't have a meat mallet, a rolling pin wrapped in plastic can work in a pinch.

While searing the chicken, keep an eye on the heat level. Medium heat is perfect to develop a beautiful golden crust without burning. Look for a nice browning on the edges, which indicates the Maillard reaction is taking place. If the skillet begins to smoke, it’s a sign that the heat is too high—reduce it immediately to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the broccoli. The cream cheese not only adds creaminess but also helps bind the filling together. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, which will still provide a creamy texture without all the fat.

Fresh broccoli florets are essential for this recipe, as they provide a pop of color and vital nutrients. However, if you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to prevent excess moisture in the filling, which could make it runny.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start preparing this delicious dish.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make the perfect stuffed chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Stuff the Chicken

Divide the broccoli mixture among the chicken breasts, placing it in the center of each. Fold the chicken over to encase the filling and secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Remove toothpicks, slice, and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy this satisfying meal straight from your oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the filling. You can also swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese varieties.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare the stuffed chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator uncooked. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to cook, simply follow the searing and baking instructions without additional prep time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

If you want to freeze the stuffed chicken, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to cook the frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, which can balance the richness of the cheese. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up any extra sauce. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra layer of flavor if you want to elevate the presentation.

For a low-carb option, consider serving the stuffed chicken with a side of cauliflower rice. The subtle flavors of cauliflower will complement the rich filling without overwhelming it. For additional flavor, add herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the cauliflower before cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with stuffed chicken?

It's great with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.