Description
This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings together the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and tender chicken breasts. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a delicious, comforting meal in under 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (3–4 chicken breasts)
1 ½ teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
¼ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Create a horizontal slit in the thickest part of the chicken to form a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the chicken breasts with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings on both sides of the chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Mix well.
- Stuff the broccoli and cheese mixture into the chicken breasts, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use toothpicks to seal the pockets.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven (uncovered) and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the toothpicks and serve the stuffed chicken hot!
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: You can swap the chicken with large portobello mushroom caps for a vegetarian version. The filling will remain the same, and you can follow the same steps to stuff and bake.
- Cheese Variations: Try swapping the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add-ins: You can add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions to the filling for extra flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb: Skip the sour cream and substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter, lower-carb option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 100mg