Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Get ready to dive into a family favorite that’s as impressive on the plate as it is easy in the kitchen: Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. This cheesy, hearty main delivers juicy chicken breasts filled to the brim with a savory broccoli and cheddar mixture—think all the comfort of a classic casserole, bundled up neatly inside a perfectly cooked chicken breast. The recipe comes together in under an hour and offers unbeatable flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or when you simply need a cozy meal. From its gorgeous golden exterior to its gooey, veggie-packed filling, this dish transforms humble ingredients into something truly special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few simple ingredients, Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken delivers big flavors and gorgeous color in every bite. Each element plays a key role—whether it’s adding a pop of green, creamy texture, or cheesy decadence.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless cuts are ideal for easy stuffing and even cooking—go for evenly sized pieces for best results.
• Broccoli: Fresh or thawed from frozen, broccoli brings bright flavor and a welcome veggie crunch to the cheesy center.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharper the cheddar, the richer the filling—shred your own for melty goodness.
• Cream Cheese: A couple tablespoons add creaminess and help bind the filling together.
• Garlic: Just one clove, minced, infuses the inside with unmistakable savory aroma.
• Onion Powder: Adds classic depth without chunky onions, so the filling stays smooth.
• Paprika: A sprinkle boosts color and adds a subtle smoky warmth to the chicken’s crust.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning both the filling and the chicken itself.
• Black Pepper: Just enough to complement all the cheesy goodness—skip or add extra to taste.
• Olive Oil: Rubbing it on the outside helps the chicken brown beautifully in the skillet before baking.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a small mixing bowl, toss together the finely chopped broccoli, shredded sharp cheddar, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and coated—the cream cheese should help hold the mixture together. If you like your broccoli on the softer side, go ahead and steam it lightly before mixing.

Step 2: Cut and Stuff the Chicken Breasts

With a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing into the thicker side, taking care not to cut all the way through. Spoon the broccoli cheddar mixture into the pocket, filling it generously but making sure the mixture stays tucked inside. Secure the opening with a few toothpicks inserted crosswise if needed—they’ll keep all that cheesy goodness from sneaking out.

Step 3: Season and Sear

Rub each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil to lock in moisture and ensure a gorgeous sear. Sprinkle paprika evenly over the surface for added color and smokiness. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear each chicken breast for about 2–3 minutes on each side, just until golden brown. This will give the chicken a beautiful crust and set the stage for the oven finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slip the oven-safe skillet (or transfer the chicken to a baking dish if needed) into your preheated oven. Bake the stuffed chicken breasts for 18–22 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The cheese should be visibly melty and the broccoli tender. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes—don’t forget to carefully take out the toothpicks before serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Garnishes

Finish your Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken with a light sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. If you feel extra generous, a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar on top in the final minutes of baking creates an irresistible cheesy crust.

Side Dishes

Some fluffy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted green beans, or a fresh garden salad are ideal companions for Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. If you’re leaning low-carb, try serving it with cauliflower mash or sautéed zucchini for a lighter twist that’s just as delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing each stuffed chicken breast on a diagonal and fanning the pieces out on a platter for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Place each piece atop a colorful bed of roasted vegetables or a swirl of creamy mashed sweet potatoes for even more visual appeal—and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully as they sit, making leftovers almost as tempting as the original meal.

Freezing

You can freeze stuffed, uncooked chicken breasts for up to two months—just wrap each securely in plastic wrap and foil before stashing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven preserves the crispy, golden exterior and keeps the filling creamy.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives this dish its signature flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of your favorites. Just be sure the cheese melts well for that ooey-gooey filling.

Is fresh or frozen broccoli better?

Both work beautifully in Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. Fresh broccoli tends to have more crunch and vibrant color, while frozen—when thawed and patted dry—comes in handy for convenience. Either way, chopping the broccoli finely helps it cook evenly inside the chicken.

How do I keep the stuffing from leaking out?

Make sure not to overstuff the chicken pockets and secure the openings tightly with toothpicks. Searing the stuffed breasts also helps to create a slightly sealed “crust” around the edges, preventing most leaks during baking.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries! After searing the stuffed chicken breasts in your regular skillet, simply transfer them to a baking dish sprayed with a little oil and pop it in the oven. The results will be just as delicious and beautifully cooked.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken dairy-free?

You can! There are great plant-based cheddar-style cheeses and cream cheese alternatives on the market today that melt and taste fantastic. Swap those in, and your favorite non-dairy milk for a creamy texture, and you’re all set.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bring Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken to your table soon. It’s a weeknight winner that never fails to impress—even picky eaters find something to love! Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to savor every cheesy, savory bite.

Print