Name: Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast – A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp paprika; Toothpicks or kitchen twine

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Short Description

Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are filled with a creamy, cheesy broccoli mixture and baked to perfection. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a satisfying and protein-packed meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and fiber from the broccoli.
Easy to Make – Requires simple ingredients and minimal prep work.
Family-Friendly – A great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables.
Versatile – Can be customized with different cheeses, seasonings, or additional fillings.
Low Carb and Keto-Friendly – A great option for those watching their carb intake.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Broccoli florets
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Paprika
Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Directions

Prepare the Broccoli Mixture: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender. Finely chop and mix with cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each chicken breast without slicing all the way through. Be careful to keep the opening small to help hold in the filling.
Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, ensuring an even distribution. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Season the Chicken: Rub the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks or twine before enjoying.

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Parmesan, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy twist.
Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the stuffed chicken in bacon before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese.
Additional Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for more nutrients.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap each cooked stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw and drain it well before mixing to prevent excess moisture.

2. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the pocket isn’t cut too deep and secure the opening with toothpicks or twine.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

4. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?

It goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, try stuffing turkey breasts or pork chops with the same filling.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

8. Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it great for a keto diet.

9. What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can work as substitutes for a lighter option.

10. Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead?

Yes! Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that makes for a satisfying and healthy dinner. It’s an easy way to enjoy a protein-packed meal while sneaking in some extra veggies. With plenty of variations and serving options, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal!

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