Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Flavorful and Nutritious Dish
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these delicious Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of broccoli and cheese, seasoned to perfection with aromatic spices. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for the family or a impressive dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup of crumbled cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of crumbled parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 2 cups of cooked broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of canola oil
- 1/2 diced red or green bell pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice each chicken breast horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open up the chicken breasts like a book and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or the back of a heavy skillet.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, crumbled cheddar and parmesan cheese, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly onto one side of each chicken breast. Fold the other side of the chicken breast over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the canola oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the stuffed chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broccoli and cheese filling mixture.
- Change up the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use the broccoli and cheese mixture to stuff portobello mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Simply thaw and drain the broccoli before chopping and mixing it with the other ingredients.
- How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing it from the oven.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if cooking them from cold.
- What can I serve with Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful filling and juicy chicken, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or a special dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this comforting dish!
This recipe for Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
