Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Name: Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and chopped; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for seasoning)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I absolutely love this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken! It's one of those comforting dishes that brings together juicy chicken breasts and a creamy filling filled with broccoli and cheddar. I enjoy preparing this for family dinners, as it never fails to impress. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, and it's an excellent way to sneak some veggies into a protein-packed meal. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this delightful, cheesy creation!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:06:28.475Z

When I first tried making stuffed chicken, I was thrilled to discover how easy it is to make a delicious filling that can elevate a simple chicken breast. By combining freshly steamed broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, I created a creamy mixture that complements the savory chicken perfectly. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into our meals without sacrificing flavor.

While cooking, I discovered that searing the chicken before baking gives it an incredible golden-brown crust, locking in the juices for a tender finish. I always use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through but still juicy inside, making this dish both delicious and safe to serve to family and friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken filled with creamy broccoli and cheddar
A great way to sneak vegetables into your meal
Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings

Perfecting the Chicken Pocket

Creating the pocket in the chicken breast is a crucial step to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor infusion. Use a sharp knife to cut horizontally into the thickest part of the chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want to create a deep pocket that can hold the filling without spilling out. If you're unsure, start with a small incision and gradually enlarge it as needed.

Once you've cut the pockets, it's essential to dry the chicken breasts lightly with a paper towel. This step helps achieve a nice sear, enhancing the final dish's flavor. If there's too much moisture, the chicken may steam instead of browning. A good sear should produce a lovely golden crust that adds depth to the flavor of the finished dish.

Baking to Juiciness

When transferring the chicken to the oven, be sure to use a baking dish that distributes heat evenly. A glass or ceramic dish works well, as it retains heat and promotes consistent cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on the center rack, ensuring it’s not crowded, which could affect air circulation and cooking time. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and maintain a moist interior.

Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). I recommend using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so check the temperature at about 20 minutes. If it's not quite there, return it to the oven and check every few minutes. The chicken should feel firm to the touch but spring back slightly when pressed.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the flavorful filling for your chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika (for seasoning)

Having all the ingredients prepped and ready makes this recipe a breeze to put together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken:

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Stuff the Chicken

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Fill each pocket generously with the broccoli and cheese mixture.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper, then sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Bake

Transfer the seared chicken to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy topping. You can also substitute different cheeses to customize the filling to your liking.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the filling by incorporating other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms. Just make sure any additional ingredients are cooked or steamed and chopped to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which could make your chicken soggy. Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper can also elevate the flavor profile with a bit of heat.

For a twist on the traditional, consider swapping out the cheddar for other cheeses such as gouda or mozzarella. Each cheese brings a different meltiness and flavor, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking. Just ensure that you use a cheese that melts well to achieve that desirable creamy texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Once stuffed and seared, you can refrigerate the chicken for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through without drying out. Enjoy this dish warm, as the filling remains creamy and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing with the other ingredients.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This stuffed chicken pairs well with a side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.