Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive! This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe brings together tender chicken, melted cheese, and vibrant broccoli for a main course that’s equally fit for busy weeknights or a special family dinner. The gooey center and savory flavors will make you feel like a kitchen superstar, and the best part is you don’t need any fancy skills or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re a broccoli fan, a cheese devotee, or simply need a standout chicken recipe, this stuffed chicken checks every box.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients—each playing an essential role in creating layers of flavor, irresistible texture, and mouthwatering color. Before you dive in, here’s what you’ll need and why each component matters:
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy stuffing, juicy results, and a perfect vessel for your cheesy filling.
- Steamed broccoli florets: Chopped finely, the broccoli adds vibrant color, tender bite, and a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully, delivering bold, creamy flavor and that iconic cheese pull when you cut into the chicken.
- Cream cheese: Softened to blend with the filling, cream cheese adds lusciousness and keeps everything moist inside the pocket.
- Garlic: A minced clove brings a punchy aroma to the filling and enhances every bite.
- Onion powder: This powder brings all the savory, oniony undertones without extra chopping.
- Paprika: Sprinkled on the chicken, paprika creates a lovely color and a hint of warmth.
- Salt: Just the right amount brings all the flavors together, inside and out.
- Black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to golden, locking in juices and starting the flavor party.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine: These handy tools keep the filling safe and snug while your chicken cooks to perfection.
How to Make Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by mixing your filling ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This blend is a creamy, colorful, and flavorful mixture that will turn each bite into a cheesy, veggie-filled delight. A fork works best for mixing everything until it’s well combined and spreadable.
Step 2: Cut Pockets in the Chicken
Lay each chicken breast flat on your cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket along the thickest side, being mindful not to cut all the way through. This creates a little envelope ready to be stuffed full of broccoli and cheesy goodness. Take your time—this step sets the stage for a beautiful stuffed chicken breast.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over both sides. This quick boost of flavor gives the outside of your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe a gorgeously seasoned crust and hints at the goodness inside.
Step 4: Stuff and Secure
Spoon the creamy broccoli and cheese filling into each chicken breast pocket until generously filled. If any filling spills out, just tuck it right back in! Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the openings and keep everything in place while cooking. This helps the breast hold its shape and ensures you get plenty of cheesy filling in every slice.
Step 5: Sear on the Stovetop
Preheat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and swirl in the olive oil. Carefully add your stuffed chicken breasts, searing for 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden. Searing locks in the juices and starts building irresistible flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Finish
Transfer the skillet straight to your preheated oven (375°F) and bake for 18–22 minutes. The chicken is ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F. Baking ensures the filling gets ultra-melty and the chicken cooks through gently. After baking, let them rest for 5 minutes before taking out the toothpicks and serving.
How to Serve Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds bright color and a herbal lift that complements the rich filling. For extra appeal, a final dusting of parmesan or a tiny squeeze of lemon juice on top will make each plate look (and taste) restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe begs for a simple side that can soak up those cheesy juices. Try fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or garlicky sautéed greens also pair beautifully with the creamy filling and juicy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice each stuffed chicken breast on a diagonal to show off that gorgeous, colorful filling. Arrange slices over a bed of greens, or fan them out over creamy mashed potatoes. For a dinner party touch, plate with a swirl of sauce or a drizzle of infused olive oil, letting the broccoli and cheese take center stage.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Just let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container to keep everything as fresh as possible.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your stuffed chicken, simply wrap each cooked or uncooked breast tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights—when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a 325°F oven until just warmed through. This keeps the chicken juicy and the cheese nice and melty. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving works—cover the chicken with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw the broccoli and pat it dry before chopping, so your filling stays creamy and not watery. It’s a great shortcut when fresh isn’t on hand.
What other cheeses can I try in the filling?
Feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda are all tasty substitutes or additions to cheddar in your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use your favorite plant-based cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese. The filling will be just as creamy and flavorful, while the chicken stays the star.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F at its thickest point for juicy, safe results.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
You sure can! Make the cheesy broccoli mixture up to two days in advance and store it, covered, in the fridge. When you’re ready, stuff and cook your chicken for dinner in a flash.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hoping to brighten up your dinner routine, the Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is absolutely worth a try. With gooey cheese, vibrant vegetables, and juicy chicken, it’s comfort food you can feel good about sharing. Give it a spot on your table—you’ll be amazed how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your rotation!
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Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, then baked to perfection. A hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Filling:
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix the filling: In a small bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the chicken: Slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the chicken: Fill each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese mixture and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the chicken: Sear the stuffed chicken breasts in a skillet until golden.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest, remove toothpicks, and serve.
Notes
- You can prepare the filling ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan on the chicken before baking.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop + Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg