Craving a delicious and healthy dinner that’s also quick to make? Look no further! This broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to prepare, and delivers a satisfyingly healthy meal the whole family will love. Forget takeout – homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated! This recipe is a testament to that, offering a delicious and nutritious alternative to those less healthy options.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by steaming or microwaving the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Don't overcook – you want them to retain a bit of their texture. Once cooked, drain the broccoli well.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the cooked broccoli, cheddar cheese, and milk. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the breadcrumbs for added texture and to help bind the filling.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal slit into each chicken breast, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Spoon the broccoli cheddar mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Then, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade meal!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of onion powder or garlic powder to the broccoli cheddar mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- You can substitute other cheeses for the cheddar, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.
- To make this recipe even quicker, use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the filling.
Variations:
- Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken: Substitute chopped spinach and artichoke hearts for the broccoli. Add a little cream cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
- Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken: Use sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives in place of the broccoli and cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken breast recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that can be prepared quickly. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!