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To make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken, gather these simple ingredients: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup steamed and finely chopped broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup softened cream cheese - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a flavorful dish. The chicken provides a juicy base. Broccoli adds nutrition and texture. Cheddar cheese brings a rich taste. Cream cheese makes the filling creamy and smooth. Spices like garlic and onion powder enhance the overall flavor. The breadcrumbs give the chicken a nice crunch when baked. Olive oil helps the breadcrumbs brown beautifully. Parsley is great for a pop of color and freshness. If you want specific measurements or cooking tips, check the Full Recipe! - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. - Prepare the filling by mixing broccoli, cheeses, and seasonings in a bowl. The mix should be creamy and tasty. - Create pockets in each chicken breast. Use a sharp knife and cut carefully. - Fill the chicken pockets with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Press gently to keep the filling inside. - Coat the stuffed chicken with breadcrumbs. This adds a crispy texture. - Bake the chicken until it is fully cooked and browned. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method keeps the chicken juicy and the cheese melty. For the full recipe, check the section above. - Ensuring pockets are properly cut: Make sure to cut a pocket in the thickest part of the chicken breast. Be careful not to slice all the way through. You want to create a nice pouch that can hold the filling securely. A well-cut pocket helps keep the filling from spilling out during cooking. - Packing the filling securely: Once you have your filling ready, spoon it into the pocket. Press it in gently but firmly. This helps to ensure that the filling stays inside while baking. If it feels loose, you might want to add more filling. - Checking internal temperature accurately: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. This step is key to avoid undercooked chicken. - Baking time adjustments for thicker chicken breasts: If your chicken breasts are thicker than usual, extend the baking time. Start with 30 minutes and check the temperature. Adjust as needed. Thicker pieces may need a few extra minutes in the oven. - Additional spices and herbs to consider: To add more flavor, consider using spices like paprika or herbs like thyme. A little lemon zest can also brighten the flavor. Experiment with what you like to make it your own. - Marinating options before baking: Marinating the chicken for a few hours can enhance its flavor. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs works well. Just remember to pat the chicken dry before stuffing it, so the filling stays put. Following these tips will make your Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken even better. You can find the Full Recipe at the beginning of the article for complete guidance. Enjoy cooking! {{image_4}} You can change the filling to keep meals fresh and fun. One tasty option is spinach and feta cheese. Just swap the broccoli with 1 cup of finely chopped spinach and add 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese. This mix gives a rich taste and a nice green color. Another great choice is sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella. Use 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. This combo adds a burst of flavor and a Mediterranean twist to your dish. You can cook your stuffed chicken in different ways. Grilling gives a smoky flavor. Just heat your grill to medium-high. Cook the stuffed chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. Baking is simple and easy. Just follow the instructions in the full recipe. It takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The air fryer is perfect for a quick option. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Check the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through. The air fryer gives a crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy. After enjoying your Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken, store any leftovers promptly. Place the chicken in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. To keep the flavors intact, make sure the container is sealed tightly. If you want to store it for longer, freeze the stuffed chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them easily. For the oven method, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist while it warms up. Heat it for about 20 to 25 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. If you prefer the microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Heat it in 30-second intervals, checking often. This method is quick, but it might not keep the chicken as juicy as the oven. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They are juicier and flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a bit longer to reach 165°F. How can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the stuffed chicken and store it in the fridge. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Bake it the next day when you're ready to eat. What are the best side dishes to serve with Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken? I love serving this chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Garlic bread also pairs nicely, adding a nice crunch and flavor. Breakdown of calories and macronutrients per serving Each serving has about 400 calories. It contains 30g of protein, 25g of fat, and 10g of carbs. This dish is rich in protein, making it great for muscle health. Dietary considerations for those with allergies or dietary restrictions This recipe contains dairy and chicken. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese. If you're vegetarian, try using tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken. You learned how to make delicious Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. You can use simple ingredients and follow step-by-step instructions to create an easy meal. Remember to add your favorite spices or try new fillings like spinach or feta. Store any leftovers properly for later. This dish is sure to impress anyone. With a few tips, your chicken will turn out juicy and flavorful every time. Enjoy your cooking and have fun experimenting with different flavors!

Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Indulge in a delicious and healthy meal with Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken! This easy recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with cheesy broccoli goodness, perfect for a family dinner. Learn step-by-step how to prepare this flavorful dish that combines nutritious ingredients with mouthwatering taste.
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped steamed broccoli, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

      Create Pockets in Chicken Breasts: Take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thickest side. Be cautious not to cut all the way through; you want to create a pouch that will hold the delicious filling.

        Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each chicken pocket, pressing gently to ensure it fills the pocket completely. Try to keep the filling inside as you proceed to the next step.

          Coat with Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Take the stuffed chicken breasts and dip them in olive oil, ensuring they are coated well. Then, roll them in the breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to help the crumbs adhere.

            Prepare for Baking: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the top, which will help them achieve a golden-brown color while baking.

              Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

                Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier chicken.

                  Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm, perhaps alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4