Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe

Ingredients

Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Filling

• 1 cup broccoli florets (finely chopped)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Season both sides and inside the slits of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to create a well-blended filling.
4. Divide the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly and stuff each chicken breast pocket with the filling.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is hot and bubbly.
7. Remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let rest for a few minutes to retain juices before serving.

Notes

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help spices stick better.
• Flatten thicker parts of chicken breasts lightly with a meat mallet for even cooking.
• Use room temperature cream cheese to ease mixing and achieve a smoother stuffing.
• Let the chicken rest after baking to ensure juicy, tender meat.
• Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to confirm it is fully cooked.