Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
What Makes Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken So Special
There’s something truly comforting about slicing into a juicy chicken breast and discovering a creamy, cheesy filling inside. Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken is one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar, and a hint of garlic creates a flavor that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, and the best part? It’s easier to make than you might think.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family—it was a hit from the very first bite. My kids, who usually pick at their broccoli, couldn’t get enough of the cheesy filling. And my husband? He asked for seconds before I even sat down. It’s become a staple in our house, especially on those busy nights when I need something quick but still satisfying. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both practical and delicious, this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken is it. For more stuffed chicken ideas, check out my stuffed chicken breasts collection.
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Ingredients for Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
For the filling
- Fresh Broccoli Florets – Finely chopped for the perfect texture.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Shredded for that classic cheesy melt.
- Cream Cheese – Softened to blend everything together smoothly.
- Garlic Powder – Just a hint for depth of flavor.
- Onion Powder – Complements the garlic perfectly.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper – A little goes a long way here.
For the coating
- Olive Oil – Used to brush the chicken for a golden crust.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Light and crispy for the best texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated and mixed with the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the coating.
For the chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the show! Make sure they’re thick enough to stuff.
Cook Time for Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
When it comes to weeknight dinners, timing is everything. This Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken recipe is a lifesaver because it’s ready in just under an hour. Prep takes about 20 minutes, and the chicken bakes for 25–30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to whip up a side dish or set the table. The total time is 50 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy evenings. If you’re looking for more quick chicken recipes, try my easy grilled chicken breast for another fast and flavorful meal.
How to Make Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil using a pastry brush or paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a rubber spatula to mix until the ingredients are well blended and the mixture becomes slightly creamy.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Stuff each breast evenly with the broccoli-cheese mixture, pressing it gently to fill the pocket. Secure the edges with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling in place.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Brush each stuffed chicken breast lightly with olive oil, then press the breadcrumb mixture onto the top and sides to form an even coating.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the breadcrumb coating is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken even better. Here are some of my favorite tips and tweaks to help you customize this dish to your taste:
- Flavor Swap: Try swapping the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different twist. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and skip the breadcrumbs. You’ll still get all the flavor without the extra calories.
- Prep Fix: If you’re short on time, chop the broccoli and shred the cheese the night before. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to keep the breadcrumbs crispy. For more meal prep ideas, check out my chicken soup recipe.
Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- spatula
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended and slightly creamy.
- Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each breast with an equal amount of the broccoli-cheese mixture, then seal the edges with toothpicks if needed.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Brush each stuffed chicken breast lightly with olive oil, then press the breadcrumb mixture onto the top and sides to coat evenly.
- Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
One of the things I love most about this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken is how it balances indulgence with nutrition. Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, while chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and satisfied. The cheese adds a dose of calcium and a creamy texture that makes this dish feel like a treat. It’s a meal that nourishes your body while still being comforting and delicious.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional highlights per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
For more healthy chicken recipes, check out my chicken soup recipe or this guide to stuffing chicken breasts for additional tips.
A Lighter Version of Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
If you’re looking to lighten up this dish, there are plenty of easy swaps you can make without sacrificing flavor. Try using low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar for the filling—it’ll still be creamy and delicious. You can also skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour for a gluten-free, lower-carb option. Another trick is to brush the chicken with a light spray of olive oil instead of a heavy coating.
For more ideas on lighter meals, take a look at my easy grilled chicken breast or these spinach and feta turkey burgers for inspiration.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Whether you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions or just trying to make healthier choices, this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken can easily be adapted. For a diabetic-friendly version, consider using a sugar-free cream cheese and pairing the dish with a low-glycemic side like roasted sweet potatoes. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium cheese and skip the added salt in the filling.
Here are a few more tips to make this recipe work for your needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for the coating.
- Low Sugar: Swap out regular cream cheese for a natural, no-sugar-added version.
- Portion Control: Serve with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
How to Serve Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
I’ll never forget the first time I served this dish to my extended family during a Sunday dinner. The table was filled with laughter, and everyone kept reaching for seconds. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, and I love pairing it with simple sides that let the chicken shine. A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a scoop of mashed potatoes are all perfect complements.
For more pairing ideas, check out my BBQ chicken breasts or this chicken burgers recipe for other family-friendly options.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ll never forget the first time I made Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken—I was so excited to serve it to my book club, but I made every rookie mistake in the book! The filling oozed out, the chicken was dry, and the breading fell right off. After years of perfecting this recipe, here’s what I’ve learned to avoid:
- Overstuffing the chicken: Too much filling will burst out during cooking. Aim for about 2 tablespoons per breast, and secure tightly with toothpicks.
- Skipping the toothpicks: Those little helpers keep everything intact! Just remember to remove them before serving (I’ve had some panicked moments fishing them out at the table).
- Underseasoning: Chicken needs love too! Don’t forget to salt and pepper both the inside and outside. My cilantro lime chicken has more tips on seasoning perfectly.
For more troubleshooting, this guide to stuffed chicken saved me during my early kitchen disasters!
How to Store Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken
When my cousin had her twins last spring, I stocked her freezer with these stuffed chicken breasts—she still texts me every time she reheats one! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I like to place parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Wrap each piece individually in foil, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for 2 months (though we never manage to wait that long—they’re too good!).
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20 minutes). For a crispy exterior, try my trick from this chicken nuggets recipe—a quick broil at the end!
Try This Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken Yourself
There’s a reason this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken has been my most-requested recipe since 2016—it turns ordinary weeknights into something special. I’ve seen picky kids clean their plates, watched dinner guests sneak extra helpings, and even caught my husband “testing” the leftovers straight from the fridge!
Whether you’re meal prepping like my cousin or hosting a cozy dinner like I did last fall, this dish adapts to your life. Need more inspiration? Try pairing it with my chicken souvlaki for a Mediterranean twist, or explore global flavors with this Japanese chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli for stuffed chicken?
Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first. I keep frozen florets on hand for last-minute meals—they work beautifully in this soup recipe too.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Chill the stuffed breasts for 15 minutes before cooking, and don’t overfill. The cheese should just peek out when sliced—like my grandma’s perfect grilled cheese sandwiches.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Gruyère makes it fancy, pepper jack adds heat, and goat cheese creates a lovely tang. My Brazilian friend swears by this cheese-stuffed chicken variation!
Can I make stuffed chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to a day in advance—just add 5 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge. Perfect for Sunday meal prep!
Don’t Miss This Fan Favorite
Every time I make this Broccoli And Cheese Stuffed Chicken, I’m transported back to my mama’s kitchen—where simple ingredients became love on a plate. If this recipe brings your family half the joy it’s brought mine, my work here is done. Now go make some memories!
