Description
A delicious and hearty main course featuring chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, seasoned with garlic, onion, and paprika, then seared and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli (steamed or blanched)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Seasoning and Cooking
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well blended to create the cheesy broccoli filling.
- Create Chicken Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal slit into each chicken breast to create a pocket, taking care not to cut all the way through.
- Season Chicken: Season the exterior of each chicken breast with paprika, salt, and black pepper to add flavor to the meat.
- Stuff Chicken: Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture evenly into each chicken pocket. Secure the edges with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove toothpicks, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli that has been thawed and well-drained if fresh broccoli is not available.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the stuffing mixture for a little heat if desired.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
