Broccoli stuffed chicken breast
Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple, tasty twist on a classic dinner. Tender chicken breasts are filled with fresh, bright broccoli and usually some melty cheese, making every bite…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple, tasty twist on a classic dinner. Tender chicken breasts are filled with fresh, bright broccoli and usually some melty cheese, making every bite a perfect mix of juicy meat and wholesome greens. It’s a great way to get a little extra veggie in without much hassle.
I love making this dish because it feels fancy but is really easy to pull off. Stuffing the chicken with broccoli and cheese turns a regular chicken breast into something special, and the flavors blend together so nicely. Sometimes I add a little garlic or seasoning inside to make it my own, and it always gets compliments.
To serve, I like pairing these stuffed chicken breasts with a light salad or some roasted potatoes on the side. It makes for a balanced meal that everyone enjoys. It’s also a great dish to bring out when you want something comforting but not too heavy. I always feel proud having it on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using skin-on chicken adds great flavor and crispy texture. If you can’t find them, skinless works fine but won’t give that crispiness.
Broccoli: Steamed or blanched broccoli is soft and easy to stuff. Frozen broccoli can be used too; just thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess.
Mozzarella Cheese: It melts wonderfully and pairs well with broccoli. Try cheddar, Swiss, or Monterey Jack if you want a different taste.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, and thyme give simple, tasty layers. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary add brightness—use what you like or have on hand.
Butter and Olive Oil: Olive oil helps sear the skin, and butter adds richness during baking. You can use all olive oil if you prefer.
How Do You Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky if the filling spills out. Here’s how to keep it neat and inside:
- When butterflying, slice carefully and leave a solid edge to hold the pocket together.
- Use a spoon to gently stuff the broccoli and cheese mixture. Don’t overfill it; keep a little space to close the pocket.
- Press the filling gently inside so it stays compact.
- Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep filling from escaping during cooking.
These steps will help keep the filling inside and make a nice presentation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp chef’s knife – essential for butterfly slicing the chicken cleanly without tearing.
- Cutting board – use a sturdy one to safely cut the chicken and prep ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – for combining broccoli and cheese easily before stuffing.
- Oven-safe skillet – lets you sear chicken on the stove and finish in the oven without extra dishes.
- Toothpicks – handy for securing the chicken pocket so the filling stays inside while cooking.
- Meat thermometer – helps check that chicken is cooked safely to 165°F without drying it out.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella with feta cheese for a tangy, salty flavor that pairs great with broccoli.
- Add cooked bacon bits into the filling for a smoky, crunchy touch.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes to the broccoli and cheese for a sweet, intense burst.
- Try ground Italian sausage instead of chicken for a different protein and hearty flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of your choice)
Seasonings & Others:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, including searing and baking. After cooking, you’ll rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving. So overall, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a sharp knife to carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle, making a pocket without cutting all the way through. Season both the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
2. Make the Filling and Stuff the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli florets and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with this mixture, pressing gently to keep it inside. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the opening.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts skin-side down and sear them until the skin turns golden brown and crispy, about 5 to 6 minutes. Flip the chicken, add the butter to the pan, and spoon some of the melted butter over the chicken to keep it juicy.
4. Bake and Serve:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast with melted cheese and crispy skin!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for the Stuffing?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid extra moisture that could make the chicken soggy.
How Can I Tell When the Chicken Is Fully Cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just bring them to room temperature for 15 minutes before searing and baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.