Description
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. Baked to golden perfection, this is a comforting and flavorful meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each)
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs, plain or panko (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli Cheddar Filling: In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; sauté 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add broccoli; cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Remove from heat.
- In a medium bowl, combine cooked broccoli mixture, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap. Pound to ½ inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme (if using). Sprinkle evenly over both sides of chicken.
- Stuff and Roll the Chicken: Place ¼ of the broccoli cheddar filling on one end of each chicken breast. Spread evenly, leaving ½ inch border.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, tucking in the sides. Secure with toothpicks if desired.
- Cook the Stuffed Chicken (Choose one option):
- Option 1: Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Place chicken rolls seam-side down. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs (optional). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Option 2: Pan-Searing and Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken rolls seam-side down for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Sprinkle with breadcrumbs during the last 5-10 minutes of baking (optional).
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese.
- Vegetable Variations: Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling.
- Make Ahead: Prepare stuffed chicken rolls up to 24 hours in advance.
- Freezing: Freeze stuffed chicken rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a green salad. Consider a creamy Dijon mustard sauce or lemon butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Remember to remove toothpicks before serving!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes