Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and delicious: The blend of cream cheese and cheddar gives the filling a rich and satisfying flavor.
Healthy and hearty: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this meal is as wholesome as it is tasty.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and steps make this a go-to for busy nights.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap in different cheeses to make it your own.
Great for meal prep: These stuffed chicken breasts store and reheat well, making them perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Filling:

2 cups chopped broccoli florets
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mix over the chicken breasts after drizzling them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.
Make the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Chicken:
- Spoon the broccoli-cheese filling into the pockets of each chicken breast.
- Secure the openings with toothpicks if needed.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then remove the toothpicks and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Cheese swap: Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a different twist.
Add-ins: Try adding chopped red peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
Bacon wrap: Wrap the chicken in bacon before baking for added flavor.
Low-fat version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a light hand with the cheddar.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken and avoid overstuffing.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw it first and drain any excess water before mixing it with the cheese.

What sides go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the stuffed chicken breasts for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Do I have to sear the chicken first?

Searing adds a nice golden color and flavor, but you can skip it and go straight to baking if preferred.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.

What other vegetables can I use?

Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini work well as filling alternatives or additions.

How do I know the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead?

Yes, grill over medium heat until cooked through, turning carefully to avoid spillage.

Can I use a different protein?

This recipe works well with turkey cutlets or thin pork chops too.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese and Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts offer a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies wrapped in tender chicken. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

Cream Cheese and Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts

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These Cream Cheese and Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a flavorful, satisfying dinner made with tender chicken, creamy cheese filling, and nutritious broccoli. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, this stuffed chicken recipe is rich, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you bake it or pan-sear and finish in the oven, this cheesy broccoli stuffed chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 30min
Total Time: 45min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet + Oven
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Drizzle chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons olive oil and rub with seasoning.
Cut Pockets: Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, being sure not to cut all the way through.
Make Filling: Mix broccoli, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Stuff Chicken: Spoon filling into each chicken breast pocket. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Bake: Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve warm

Notes

Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped red peppers to the filling for extra flavor.
Swap cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and skip searing if preferred.
Wrap in bacon before baking for extra richness.