Are you looking to elevate your dinner game while keeping things healthy? The magic of Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast lies in its perfect blend of flavors and nutrition. Did you know that a single serving of this dish can pack around 40 grams of protein, meeting nearly 80% of the daily recommended intake for most adults? This makes it not just a meal, but a power-packed dish that truly satisfies!
Ingredients Needed
To make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, you’ll need:
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 2 ¼ pounds): The heart of this dish; they’re juicy and form the perfect pocket for stuffing.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and the stuffing.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness, creating depth in flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a comforting, savory note.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder for extra umami.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of heat that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
- 1 ½ cups small-diced broccoli florets: Provides crunch and nutrition; ensure they’re blanched and patted dry for the best texture.
- ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper: Brightens the dish with color and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 ⅓ cups shredded colby-jack cheese: The melty, creamy star of the show; feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a different twist.
- 1 ½ tablespoons mayonnaise: Helps bind the stuffing and adds moisture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the chicken and infusing flavor.
Timing
In total, this recipe will take about 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average stuffed chicken recipe. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Baking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breast
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut a pocket lengthwise into the side of each chicken breast using a sharp pairing knife; just be careful not to cut all the way through. Gently widen the pockets with your fingers and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, stir together the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Set this flavorful blend aside for later.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, shredded colby-jack cheese, mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of the reserved seasoning blend. Gently stir to mix, being careful not to break up the broccoli too much.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Stuff each chicken breast with a fourth of the broccoli filling. Secure the opening with 2-3 toothpicks to prevent the stuffing from escaping during cooking.
Step 5: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts and set aside.
Step 6: Sear the Chicken
Preheat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and two of the stuffed chicken breasts. Brown each side for 3-4 minutes. You’re not cooking them through at this point; just a nice golden color is sufficient. Remove them and repeat with the remaining two breasts.
Step 7: Bake
Return all the chicken breasts to the skillet, remove from the heat, cover with foil, and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before carefully removing the toothpicks.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast can be broken down into:
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
This dish provides a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, making it both delicious and beneficial for muscle maintenance.
Healthier Alternatives For Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
To boost the nutritional profile while maintaining fantastic flavors, consider these swaps:
- Chicken: Use turkey breast for a leaner option or plant-based chicken substitutes for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese: Opt for low-fat cheese varieties to reduce calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
- Mayo: Substitute Greek yogurt for a protein boost and tangy flavor.
- Broccoli: Incorporate spinach or kale for a different texture and added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation and flavor balance, serve your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast alongside:
- Steamed asparagus or green beans for a vibrant color contrast and crunch.
- Rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not securing the chicken properly: Ensure you use enough toothpicks to lock in the filling; otherwise, it may leak during cooking.
- Skipping the blanched step for broccoli: This prevents the broccoli from being too crunchy and ensures it melds well with the cheese.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Cook in batches to get a nice sear instead of steam.
Storing Tips For Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Conclusion
The Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful combination of flavor and nutrition that the whole family will love. Remember to give it a try and don’t hesitate to share what you think! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy meal for two, this dish is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuffing in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry the broccoli before using it in the stuffing.
What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs perfectly with light salads, roasted vegetables, or grains like rice or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.
By incorporating these tasty aspects into your cooking routine, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a delicious meal and impress your guests! Feel free to explore more recipes and cooking tips right here. Happy cooking!
Print
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A healthy yet indulgent dish featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of broccoli and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 2 ¼ pounds)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups small-diced broccoli florets
- ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1 ⅓ cups shredded colby-jack cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Cut a pocket lengthwise into the side of each chicken breast and gently widen the pockets.
- In a small bowl, stir together salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- In a medium bowl, combine blanched broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, shredded colby-jack cheese, mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of the reserved seasoning blend. Mix gently.
- Stuff each chicken breast with a fourth of the broccoli filling and secure with toothpicks.
- Sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix over both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Preheat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Return all chicken breasts to the skillet, cover with foil, and bake for 18-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks.
Notes
Ensure that the broccoli is blanched to avoid excessive crunchiness in the filling. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: broccoli, chicken, stuffed chicken, healthy recipe, protein-rich