Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Creamy broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken is my go to weeknight dinner for serving something really delicious that works with our family’s busy schedule. This stuffed chicken recipe combines nutritious broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese in just 15 minutes of prep and bakes in under 45 minutes. You get beautifully seared chicken with a cheesy, melty center for a protein rich meal that feels special any night of the week.

I first started making broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken on nights when my kids wanted something cheesy like classic chicken and cheese, but I was determined to add more veggies. The creamy filling and golden chicken mean it is always a hit, even among picky eaters who love the cheesy, satisfying center. Over time, this protein packed recipe has become our cozy weeknight staple and a creative way to enjoy a nutritious dinner together.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts stuffed chicken: Look for thick 6 to 8 ounce chicken breasts for best moistness and easy stuffing; thinner ones may cook too fast and risk dryness. Substitute boneless thighs for juicier results if preferred.
• Steamed broccoli fresh broccoli: Chop finely so it blends evenly with cheese; choose bright green florets for peak freshness and no yellowing. Frozen broccoli can be used if well drained.
• Shredded cheddar cheese cheese filling: Use sharp cheddar for a hearty flavor punch or mild cheddar for picky kids. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack offer great alternatives.
• Cream cheese softened cream cheese: Softened for easier mixing, adds rich creaminess to the filling. Light cream cheese works for lower fat options.
• Garlic powder seasoning: Provides gentle savory depth that balances out the creamy filling. Onion powder works if you are out of garlic powder.
• Paprika smoked paprika: Sprinkled outside for color and subtle smokiness; try smoked paprika for deeper flavor or regular for classic taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhance and balance all flavors; always use coarse or kosher salt for best control.
• Extra virgin olive oil oil for searing: Creates golden crust while baking and keeps chicken moist; avocado oil can be used instead if available.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:

Set your oven to 375°F for proper, even baking, and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents the stuffed chicken from sticking and also helps with easy cleanup later.

Mix the Broccoli Cheese Stuffing:

In a small bowl, combine steamed chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix with a sturdy spoon or spatula until creamy and thick. For extra smoothness, gently mash broccoli with a fork before mixing with cheese.

Cut Pockets in the Chicken Breasts:

Place the chicken breasts on a board and steady each with your palm. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a deep pocket into the thickest side, being careful not to cut through. This creates a space for all the creamy filling. Too thin a pocket may cause filling to escape during baking.

Stuff Each Chicken Breast Generously:

Evenly fill each chicken pocket with the broccoli cheddar mixture, pressing it in gently so the stuffing stays put. Each breast should be plump but not overflowing. Secure with toothpicks if needed to help hold everything inside during cooking.

Season the Chicken and Prep for Searing:

Rub each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil on the outside, then sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. This step creates a flavorful, colorful crust and keeps the chicken juicy when baked.

Sear the Chicken for Perfect Color and Texture:

Heat a skillet over medium high heat and add the stuffed chicken. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown forms and the chicken releases easily from the pan. This step builds flavor and helps the chicken stay moist in the oven.

Bake Until Cheese is Melted and Chicken is Juicy:

Transfer the seared chicken to the greased baking dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F in the thickest part. Let rest a few minutes after baking to keep juices in. Cheese will be melted and broccoli perfectly tender in the filling.

I love using extra sharp Vermont cheddar in the filling for bigger cheese flavor, and this stuffed chicken became our favorite after a snowy hike when everyone needed comfort food. Family members race to the table for first servings, and the broccoli brings a bit of crunch and nutrition to balance the creamy center. For carb watchers, cauliflower rice is a great, lighter side that still soaks up all the cheesy juices.

Smart Swaps and Variations

Broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken is easy to customize for different diets or cravings by adjusting the cheeses and vegetables inside. Use mozzarella for a mild, gooey twist or pepper jack if you want a kick of heat. For dairy free needs, substitute vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives that melt nicely. Try cauliflower florets instead of broccoli for something new and a lower carb option. If you have leftover cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken, mix it into the stuffing for meal prep variety or extra protein.

How to Store and Reheat Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Let the cooked stuffed chicken cool completely, then store in an airtight glass or plastic container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For freezing, wrap individual stuffed breasts in parchment paper and place in a freezer safe bag or lidded container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes or use a microwave in one minute intervals if short on time. For best results, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and avoid reheating at too high a temperature, which can cause the filling to separate.

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

This stuffed chicken recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted new potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes for pure comfort food appeal. If you want something lighter, serve it with a green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, fluffy couscous, or simple steamed rice for a balanced plate. On special occasions, garnish with fresh parsley or chives and add a glass of chilled white wine for adults to round out the meal. Portion each chicken breast whole or cut in halves for easier serving at the table.

Nutritional Benefits

This broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken offers a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, fiber and vitamin C from broccoli, and calcium for healthy bones from cheddar cheese. It is naturally gluten free, making it suitable for gluten free diets, and adapts easily for dairy free needs using vegan cheese. Each serving provides about 25 grams of protein and roughly 500 calories, making it filling enough for lunch, dinner, or meal prep while supporting muscle health and immune function.

Recipe Success Tips

If stuffing leaks during baking, check that you are not overfilling pockets and always secure larger openings with toothpicks. To keep chicken juicy, let it rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing into the melted center. If you do not have a skillet for searing, bake directly in the dish, but note the crust may be lighter in color and slightly less rich in flavor. Remember to measure cheese and broccoli for even stuffing distribution in every bite.

This creamy broccoli cheddar stuffed chicken is sure to bring new life and comfort to your dinner table. Give it a try this week and enjoy how easy it is to please even picky eaters while sneaking in extra veggies.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I prevent the cheese filling from leaking out?

Secure the stuffed chicken breasts with toothpicks, and avoid overfilling to keep the filling inside during cooking.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli before chopping it for the stuffing. Remove excess moisture to avoid sogginess.

→ Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing adds flavor and a golden crust, but you can skip this step if you prefer. Adjust baking time accordingly.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Pair with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

→ How can I make the filling creamier?

Increase the cream cheese or add a splash of heavy cream when mixing the broccoli and cheese for extra creaminess.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the stuffed chicken several hours in advance. Simply bake when ready to serve.