Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken (Print-Friendly Version)

Chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheddar, oven-baked for a cheesy, hearty main course.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Filling

01 - 1 cup steamed broccoli, finely chopped
02 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
03 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Chicken

06 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

→ Seasoning & Cooking

07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
02 - In a small bowl, thoroughly combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly blended.
03 - Using a sharp knife, create a deep pocket lengthwise in each chicken breast, being careful not to slice all the way through.
04 - Evenly distribute the broccoli cheese filling inside each chicken breast pocket. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to prevent spillage.
05 - Rub the exterior of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Season all sides with paprika, additional salt, and black pepper as desired.
06 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
07 - Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For best results, use freshly steamed broccoli and allow cream cheese to fully soften before mixing. Always rest stuffed chicken briefly before slicing to retain juices.