Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts: A Delicious and Nutritious Dinner Option

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s also healthy and easy to make? Look no further than these Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts! Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious stuffed chicken breasts, along with some FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions!

Introduction:

These Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delicious twist on traditional chicken dinner recipes. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of broccoli, bell pepper, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, then baked to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, minced
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese or melting cheese of choice
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
3. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop them into small pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, minced bell pepper, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

1. Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into the pockets you created in the chicken breasts, dividing it evenly among them.
2. Secure the openings with toothpicks to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Breasts

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
2. Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and stuff portobello mushrooms or bell peppers with the broccoli and cheese mixture for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes, for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos to the filling mixture for a spicy kick.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of this recipe:

• Replace breadcrumbs: Omit the breadcrumbs from the filling mixture or use crushed pork rinds instead for a low-carb option.
• Use low-carb veggies: Choose low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini instead of broccoli to reduce the carb content.
• Reduce cheese: Cut back on the amount of cheese in the filling to lower the overall carb count.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Simply thaw it before chopping and incorporating it into the filling mixture.

Q: Can I prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to remove them from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast to check for doneness.

These Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delicious and satisfying meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. With its flavorful filling and tender chicken, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try for your next dinner and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!