Broccoli stuffed chicken breast
Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple yet delicious meal that brings together tender chicken with a fresh green twist. Inside each chicken breast, you'll find a beautiful pocket filled…
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Broccoli stuffed chicken breast is a simple yet delicious meal that brings together tender chicken with a fresh green twist. Inside each chicken breast, you’ll find a beautiful pocket filled with steamed broccoli and often some melted cheese, making every bite a little surprise of flavor and texture. It’s a great way to enjoy your veggies while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take too long to prepare. Stuffing the chicken breasts is easier than it looks, and I usually like to add a little garlic or herbs to give it a nice boost. One tip I swear by is to make sure the broccoli isn’t too watery before stuffing, so the chicken stays juicy and not soggy.
Serving this dish with a simple side like roasted potatoes or a fresh salad completes the meal perfectly. I also find that leftovers can be great for the next day, either warmed up or sliced for a tasty sandwich. Everyone always asks for the recipe, which makes it one of my favorite go-to dinners when I want to impress without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Large, boneless, skinless breasts work best for stuffing. If breasts are small, consider pounding them a bit to get room for filling. You can also try chicken thighs for more flavor, but adjust cooking time.
Broccoli: Finely chopped broccoli creates a nice texture inside the chicken. Frozen broccoli works fine—just thaw and drain excess water before mixing. You can swap broccoli with spinach or asparagus for a different twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar melt nicely and add creaminess. Feel free to mix both or use your favorite melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda. For a lighter version, use part-skim cheese.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, crispy touch. If you want a vegetarian option, omit bacon or replace with chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
How Do You Safely Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Tearing Them?
Creating a pocket in the chicken breast is key but can be tricky.
- Use a sharp, thin knife to cut horizontally through the thickest part of the breast. Go slowly to avoid cutting through the other side.
- Stop cutting about ½ inch from the edge, so the pocket stays intact and holds the filling.
- Gently open the pocket and stuff the filling without overfilling to prevent tearing.
- Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed before searing and baking.
Taking your time here helps keep the chicken intact and results in nicely stuffed, juicy breasts.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp chef’s knife – essential for cutting clean pockets in the chicken without tearing it.
- Cutting board – gives you a stable surface to safely slice and prepare ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining the broccoli, cheese, bacon, and seasonings evenly.
- Large skillet (oven-safe if possible) – great for searing the chicken to get a golden crust before baking.
- Baking dish – needed if your skillet isn’t oven safe; it holds the chicken while it bakes through.
- Toothpicks – handy for keeping the chicken pockets closed during cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon with diced ham for a milder, less smoky flavor that still adds meatiness.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangy, creamy twist.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling for a sweet, rich boost.
- Include chopped spinach or kale with the broccoli to add more greens and nutrients without changing the flavor too much.
How to Make Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, chopped finely
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook. Total time you’ll need is around 35-40 minutes, including searing the chicken and baking it to perfection with cheesy broccoli filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. In a bowl, mix the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, minced garlic, and half of the chopped bacon. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir everything together well.
2. Stuff and Season the Chicken:
Spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket. If needed, use toothpicks to keep the filling inside. Brush the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning evenly over them.
3. Sear, Bake, and Finish:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon over the top. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove toothpicks, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for the Filling?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheese and bacon to avoid soggy filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken?
Store 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 filling warm.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Bring them to room temperature before searing and baking for even cooking.
What Can I Serve With Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the cheesy richness.
