Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that's sure to impress? Look no further! This chicken stuffed with broccoli recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, easy to make, and offers a fantastic balance of protein and vegetables. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game! This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a healthy alternative to takeout and a delicious addition to your best recipes collection.
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly. Overcooking the broccoli will make it mushy, so keep an eye on it.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cooled broccoli, Parmesan cheese, red onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Carefully open the chicken breasts and fill each with about 1/3 of the broccoli and quinoa mixture.
Step 4: Secure and Sear
Tuck the edges of the chicken breasts together to secure the filling. You can use toothpicks if needed, but they're usually not necessary. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! This quick dinner idea is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don't have quinoa, you can substitute with cooked rice or couscous.
- Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the filling for extra flavor and color.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add some shredded mozzarella cheese to the filling.
- Herb-infused Chicken: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This chicken stuffed with broccoli recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, making it a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!