Cooking weeknight dinners can feel like a rush. One evening, I came home tired and hungry. I needed something comforting and quick.
That’s when I found a recipe for easy broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken. It promised great taste and added veggies. With each bite, I knew it was perfect for busy nights.
This stuffed chicken recipe became a hit with my family. It made cooking easier and brought joy to our meals. Plus, it got a 4.62 out of 5 rating from others, showing it’s a favorite.
Introduction to Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is a hit in my kitchen. It’s both comforting and nutritious, perfect for quick dinners. The creamy filling with fresh broccoli makes it special.
This dish is loved by kids and adults alike. It’s easy to make and pleases everyone.
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and another 30 to cook. You’ll have a tasty meal in just an hour. It’s full of flavor and good for you.
Each serving has 499 calories. It’s also low-carb and keto-friendly. This makes it great for many diets.
Choosing this dish means you get a meal that’s both tasty and healthy. You can try different cheeses and add more veggies. It’s a favorite in my kitchen.
Why Choose Stuffed Chicken Breasts?
Stuffed chicken breasts are a great choice for anyone wanting to improve their cooking. They are very flexible, allowing for many flavors and ingredients. This makes them a fun chicken dinner idea for any night.
Stuffed chicken breasts keep moisture in while cooking. The stuffing, like cheese and veggies, mixes together. This creates a juicy chicken full of flavor.
Stuffing chicken breasts also lets you add tasty veggies. I often use broccoli or other fresh veggies in the filling. This makes dinner healthy and looks great when you slice it open.
This mix of taste, health, and looks makes stuffed chicken breasts a hit for family meals. You can make it your own, making it a fun cooking experience at home.
Essential Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts
To make delicious broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken breasts, you need the right ingredients. Each part is important for the tasty flavor of this dish. Let’s look at what you’ll need for this tasty chicken recipe.
Chicken Breasts
Use four boneless, skinless chicken breasts, each 6-7 ounces. This size lets you fill them well and keeps the chicken juicy. The chicken is the base for the tasty filling.
Cheese and Cream Cheese
The filling’s star is 1 ½ cups of sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Together, they make the filling gooey and rich. When melted, the cheddar cheese adds a great flavor to the chicken.
Fresh Vegetables: Broccoli
Use one small head of broccoli, steamed and chopped. Broccoli adds nutrition and a fresh taste. It has about 2 net carbs per serving, making it good for health-conscious eaters.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Making a tasty stuffed chicken recipe is easy. I’ll show you how to make a broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken. It’s a hit with everyone.
Preparing the Chicken
First, remove extra fat from the chicken breasts. Then, cut a pocket in each breast without breaking the skin. This keeps the filling inside while it cooks.
Season the outside with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This adds great flavor to the chicken.
Making the Broccoli and Cheese Filling
For the filling, mix broccoli florets, diced bell pepper, shredded cheese, and mayonnaise in a bowl. This mix is creamy and full of flavor. Make sure everything is well mixed.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
Start by pan-frying the chicken in a bit of oil over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side. This makes a golden crust.
Then, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F for 10-15 minutes. It should reach 165°F inside. This method makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
| Preparation Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Oven Temperature | 425°F |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Carbohydrates per Serving | 2 net carbs |
| Calories per Serving | 253 kcal |
| Storage (Fridge) | Up to 4 days |
| Storage (Freezer) | Up to 3 months |
This easy stuffed chicken recipe is not only delicious but also fits a keto diet. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Cooking Time and Temperature
To make the perfect broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken, you need to get the cooking right. Bake the chicken at 375°F for 30 to 35 minutes. This way, the chicken cooks well and keeps the creamy filling inside.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer. Check the chicken’s internal temperature is at least 165°F. This makes sure the chicken is safe and tasty.
The recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Then, it bakes for a while. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for five days or frozen for three months. To reheat, put them in the oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
Storage Tips for Leftover Stuffed Chicken
Storing leftover easy stuffed chicken right keeps it tasty for days. The right ways keep flavors and textures good for your next meal.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Put leftover healthy chicken dinner in an airtight container. This keeps it safe in the fridge. Cool it down before sealing to keep the taste.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is great for longer storage. Wrap it in plastic or foil, then in a freezer bag. This way, it stays good for three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat for juicy chicken.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. |
Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Broccoli and chicken together make a tasty dish. It’s not just yummy, but also good for you. Broccoli is full of vitamins C and K.
These vitamins help your body fight off sickness and keep your skin healthy. They also help your bones stay strong. Plus, broccoli has lots of fiber, which is good for your stomach and helps you stay at a healthy weight.
Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein. This is good for your muscles. It also helps you feel full longer, which is great for weight control.
Cheddar cheese adds calcium to the dish. This is good for your bones. But, remember, cheese has more calories. Using less-fat cheese is a good idea.
Adding this dish to family meals is a smart move. It makes eating veggies fun for everyone. It also helps families cook together and enjoy healthy food.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 39 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Creating a great meal is more than just the main dish. Broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken is amazing with the right sides. These sides add flavor and color to your meal.
Side Dishes to Pair
Here are some tasty sides that go well with stuffed chicken:
- Garlic Bread – A crispy treat to soak up any melted cheese.
- Veggie Rice Pilaf – The added vegetables provide a nutritious contrast.
- Classic Caesar Salad – Fresh greens with a tangy dressing balance the richness of the chicken.
These sides add more flavor and make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Wine Pairings
Choosing the right wine can make your meal even better. Here are some wine suggestions for broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken:
| Wine Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | This crisp white wine adds brightness, complementing the richness of the cheese. |
| Chardonnay | A full-bodied option that enhances the creamy flavors of the dish. |
| Pinot Noir | For a red option, this light wine provides a nice balance without overpowering. |
Choosing one of these wines with your sides makes for a memorable meal. Enjoying these combinations is sure to make your meal unforgettable!
Alternative Ingredients to Customize Your Stuffed Chicken
Making broccoli cheddar chicken is fun because you can make it your own. You can try different veggies and cheeses. This way, you can make it taste just right for you.
Adding Extra Veggies
Adding more veggies can make your chicken even better. Here are some good ones:
- Spinach for a nutritious boost
- Red bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Zucchini to enhance moisture
These veggies make your chicken taste great and look good too. They also make it healthier.
Different Cheese Options
Cheese is key to the creamy filling. Trying different cheeses can be exciting. Here are some I like:
- Monterey Jack for a milder flavor
- Feta to add a tangy kick
- Dairy-free cheese for accommodating lactose intolerance
- Italian blend cheeses for a richer taste
These cheeses let you make your chicken fit your taste. They also add new flavors to enjoy.
| Ingredient Type | Examples | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Spinach, Red Bell Peppers, Mushrooms | Increased nutrition, color, and flavor complexity |
| Cheese | Monterey Jack, Feta, Dairy-free Cheese | Diverse tastes, accommodating dietary needs |
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
This easy stuffed chicken recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make and tastes amazing. Broccoli and cheddar add flavor and nutrients.
It’s easy to prepare. Just stuff the chicken and bake it. You can have dinner ready in under an hour.
It’s also flexible. You can make it ahead and refrigerate it. Then, just reheat it when you need a quick dinner.
Many people love this recipe. It has a high satisfaction rating. It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for a family meal.
This recipe is a great choice for weeknight dinners. It’s balanced and delicious, making everyone happy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 267 kcal |
| Protein | 33 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 102 mg |
| Sodium | 331 mg |
| Potassium | 671 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 760 IU |
| Vitamin C | 65 mg |
| Calcium | 243 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Final Thoughts on Easy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
I’m so excited to share my thoughts on this easy stuffed chicken. It’s made with just seven simple ingredients and takes only 40 minutes. You’ll get a dish that’s not only tasty but also healthy.
Each 8-ounce chicken breast is filled with a creamy, cheesy broccoli mix. Even the pickiest eaters will love it.
This recipe is a hit in my home. It’s a great choice for weeknight dinners. It’s full of protein and veggies, making it a healthy option.
It’s also super easy to make. This means I can enjoy a delicious meal with my family. Plus, leftovers are great for busy days.
If you want to impress guests or just need a quick dinner, try this recipe. It’s sure to please everyone. It shows how easy it is to make a meal that everyone will enjoy.
