Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When I want to serve something hearty and satisfying without a lot of fuss, I turn to this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken. It’s one of those recipes that surprises people every time — tender chicken breasts with a golden crust, filled with a creamy broccoli and cheddar center that just oozes out with each slice. It’s simple, it’s comforting, and it always feels like a little indulgence.

This dish came together on a weeknight when I was craving something cheesy but still wanted it to feel like a full, well-rounded dinner. I had leftover broccoli from the night before and a block of sharp cheddar that needed using. The idea of stuffing it all into juicy chicken breasts popped into my head, and after one bite, I knew it would become a regular.

What I love most about this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken is that it manages to hit all the right notes — savory, melty, just a bit crisp on the outside. It doesn’t need fancy sides or sauces. It stands perfectly on its own or next to a simple salad or mashed potatoes. And if you’re cooking for a family, even picky eaters get hooked fast.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

This recipe is the definition of a feel-good meal. It takes a basic chicken breast and transforms it into something packed with flavor and texture. The combination of tender meat and rich, cheesy broccoli feels like comfort food with a grown-up twist. It’s quick enough for busy nights but impressive enough for when company drops in. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a new chicken dinner to add to your rotation, this one delivers every time.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts are the star of this dish. You’ll need them boneless and skinless, thick enough to create a pocket for the stuffing. This cut provides a juicy base that holds up well in the oven.

Broccoli adds a fresh, slightly earthy bite that balances the richness of the cheese. I prefer using fresh florets steamed until just tender, but frozen broccoli works fine if that’s what you have on hand.

Cheddar cheese brings the creamy sharpness to the filling. A good-quality sharp cheddar melts beautifully and has enough punch to complement the mild flavor of the chicken and broccoli.

Cream cheese helps bind the stuffing and adds an extra layer of creaminess. It also keeps the inside of the chicken from drying out while baking.

Garlic powder and onion powder are simple pantry staples that enhance the savory flavor of the filling without overwhelming the ingredients.

Salt and black pepper season the chicken well before stuffing and searing. Seasoning both inside and outside is key for maximum flavor.

Olive oil is used to sear the chicken before baking, giving the outside a golden, flavorful crust that locks in moisture.

Toothpicks are essential here for securing the stuffed chicken breasts and keeping all that cheesy goodness inside.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the chopped, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until fully combined into a creamy, chunky mixture that will stuff the chicken.

Step 2: Slice and Stuff the Chicken

Carefully slice a pocket horizontally into the side of each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. Spoon the broccoli cheddar mixture into each pocket and secure the opening with toothpicks.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the outside of each stuffed breast with salt and pepper, then sear each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Bake to Finish

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the filling to set slightly, making for a clean, flavorful cut.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, try using a different cheese like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some added heat. For the vegetable, finely chopped spinach or kale can be a nice change from broccoli, especially if you’re looking to sneak in some greens. If you’re avoiding dairy, dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheddar work well in this recipe and still give you that luscious texture.

To make it low-carb or keto-friendly, you’re already in great shape — just pair with a side like roasted zucchini instead of potatoes. And if chicken breasts aren’t your favorite, thick-cut pork chops can also be stuffed similarly with delicious results.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides that won’t overpower its richness. I like to serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple garden salad tossed in vinaigrette. Mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles make the meal feel a little more indulgent.

You can also slice it and serve over a bed of seasoned rice or quinoa. It works well with chilled pasta salads or even alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting lunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers store nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals if you’re in a hurry — just be careful not to overcook, or the chicken can get tough.

If you want to freeze them, wrap each cooked stuffed chicken breast tightly in foil or freezer wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

FAQs

How do I keep Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken from drying out?

The cream cheese in the filling helps lock in moisture, and searing the chicken creates a barrier to keep the juices inside. Don’t skip the resting step after baking.

Can I prepare Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken up to a day ahead, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What kind of broccoli works best in Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken?

Fresh broccoli steamed until just tender gives the best texture, but thawed frozen broccoli also works fine. Just make sure it’s drained well so the filling isn’t watery.

Can I grill Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken instead of baking?

Yes, but make sure your grill is set to medium heat and the chicken is securely sealed with toothpicks. Grill with indirect heat until the inside reaches 165°F.

What should I do if my filling leaks out of the Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken?

That happens sometimes — no big deal. Use more toothpicks to seal any large openings, and try not to overstuff. Even if a little cheese escapes, it still tastes amazing!

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into cheesy, flavor-packed dinners, you’ve got to check out the Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken. It’s another irresistible chicken dish that delivers comfort with every bite.

Another great one to try is the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice — it’s garlicky, buttery, and works beautifully for a cozy dinner.

And if you love stuffing your proteins, the Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach might just become your next go-to.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this one slip away — pin this Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Chicken to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can find it when the craving hits. If you loved it, share it with your family and friends on Facebook or Instagram. Whether you’re posting your results or sending it in a message, a recipe this good deserves to be passed on!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?