Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy broccoli and cheddar filling, seasoned with garlic and herbs, then baked until golden and tender. This protein-packed dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Broccoli Cheddar Filling
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped broccoli and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked broccoli
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
- Divide the filling evenly among the chicken breasts.
- Stuff each pocket generously.
- Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
Step 5: Season
In a small bowl, combine:
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
Brush the chicken with olive oil and coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Step 6: Bake
- Arrange the stuffed chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
- Sprinkle the tops with additional cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted asparagus
- Buttered green beans
- Steamed rice
- Cauliflower mash
- Garden salad
- Roasted carrots
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 470
- Protein: 49 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
- Sodium: 610 mg
- Calcium: 300 mg
- Iron: 1.6 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands of ingredients used.
Nut Information
Contains
- Milk (Dairy): Cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese
Does Not Contain
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Eggs
- Wheat/Gluten
- Soy (unless present in packaged cheese)
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Sesame
Nut Allergy Tips
- Use cheese labeled as processed in a nut-free facility if cooking for someone with severe tree nut or peanut allergies.
- Always check seasoning blends and shredded cheese labels for potential cross-contamination warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the filling.
2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Stuff and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Gruyère, or Pepper Jack all work well.
5. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 18–22 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I freeze stuffed chicken?
Yes. Freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
7. What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, pasta, quinoa, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad are all excellent choices.
8. Can I make it low carb or keto?
Yes. This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into a keto lifestyle. Pair it with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
9. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through.
10. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes. Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, sautéed onions, or roasted red peppers make delicious additions without overpowering the broccoli and cheddar filling.
