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Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken

A delicious blend of protein-rich chicken, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheese that makes for an impressive meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 2¼ pounds)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling
  • 1½ cups small-diced broccoli florets (~½-inch pieces, blanched and patted dry)
  • ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • 1⅓ cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
  • 1½ tablespoons mayonnaise
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut a pocket lengthwise into each chicken breast, being careful not to slice through completely.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning blend generously inside and outside each chicken breast.
Filling
  1. In another bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, red bell pepper, shredded Colby-Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of the seasoning blend. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with a quarter of the broccoli mixture and use toothpicks to secure the pockets closed.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear two chicken breasts at a time for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  2. Once all the chicken is seared, return it to the skillet, cover with foil, and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  3. After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before carefully removing toothpicks.
  4. Serve the chicken while it’s warm.

Notes

Ensure the broccoli is blanched and patted dry for a moist filling. Mix in other vegetables for added versatility. Consider broiling the chicken for an extra crispy finish.