Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe that features tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of steamed broccoli, red bell pepper, mild cheddar cheese, and mayo. The chicken is seared to perfection on the stovetop before being baked in the oven to achieve a juicy and cheesy filling that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 large chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder (divided)
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Filling
- 1 cup broccoli florets (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Carefully slice through the middle of each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting all the way through.
- Make Filling: Place the finely chopped broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with about 2 tablespoons of water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 1 minute to soften. Drain excess water. Add the finely diced red bell pepper, mild cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, remaining 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to combine the filling.
- Stuff Chicken: Divide the filling evenly between the chicken breasts, filling each pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat and add olive oil. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
- Bake: Cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the filling to set before serving.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife when cutting the pocket in the chicken breasts for easier filling.
- Microwaving the broccoli with water helps soften it quickly for better texture in the filling.
- If desired, add extra seasoning like onion powder or smoked paprika to the filling for enhanced flavor.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Removing the toothpicks before serving is recommended for safety.