Introduction
Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the vibrant flavors of broccoli and gooey melted cheese. This delectable recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, impressing guests with its visual appeal and delicious taste. Whether you are a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Flavorful and Nutritious
The marriage of chicken, broccoli, and cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tenderness of the chicken breast pairs perfectly with the slight crunch of the broccoli, all enveloped in the rich creaminess of melted cheese. Not only is this dish a gastronomic delight, but it also boasts nutritional benefits. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber, while chicken is a lean source of protein, making this dish a balanced meal that is as healthy as it is tasty.
Impressive Presentation
One of the standout features of the Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is its striking presentation. The vibrant green of the broccoli peeking out from the golden-brown chicken, oozing with melted cheese, is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Whether served as the centerpiece of a dinner party or as a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to draw admiration and satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
What Tools You’ll Need
Cooking Tools:
– One baking dish
– Meat mallet or rolling pin
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Mixing bowl
– Spoon
– Fork
– Aluminum foil
Cooking Utensils:
– Cooking oil or spray
– Tongs
– Cooking thermometer
– Meat tenderizer
– Toothpicks
– Basting brush
To prepare the delicious Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, you will need various tools and utensils. For cooking, you will need a baking dish to cook your chicken in the oven. A meat mallet or rolling pin will come in handy to flatten the chicken breasts before stuffing. Using a sharp knife on a cutting board, you can easily cut a pocket into each chicken breast for the stuffing.
In terms of utensils, cooking oil or spray is essential to prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking dish. Tongs will help you handle the chicken breasts safely, and a cooking thermometer will ensure they are cooked to perfection. A meat tenderizer can assist in pounding the chicken breasts evenly, and toothpicks will help secure the stuffed chicken. A basting brush is useful for adding flavor while cooking. With these tools and utensils, you’ll be well-equipped to create a fantastic dish!
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
Chicken Breast Preparation
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
To prepare the chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
Broccoli Cheese Stuffing
– 2 cups steamed broccoli florets, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a uniform stuffing mixture.
Instructions
To make this delicious Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, follow these simple steps:
Preparing the Chicken
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle, but not cutting all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with a mix of cooked broccoli florets and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Use toothpicks to secure the opening of the chicken breast and hold the stuffing inside.
Cooking the Dish
6. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Remove the toothpicks before serving to avoid any accidents.
10. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with your favorite side dishes!
Nutrition Score
When it comes to the nutrition score of Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, this dish offers a balance of essential nutrients along with great flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional aspects to consider:
Vitamins and Minerals
• Broccoli is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, which are vital for immunity, blood clotting, and cell growth.
• Chicken breast is high in protein and provides essential minerals like selenium and phosphorus for muscle function and bone health.
• Cheese contributes calcium and vitamin A, promoting strong bones and vision health.
Including these nutrient-dense ingredients in one dish enhances the overall nutritional value and offers a wholesome meal option.
Calories and Macronutrients
• A single serving of Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast typically contains around 350-400 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal option.
• The dish is a good source of lean protein from chicken breast, aiding in muscle repair and growth.
• The combination of protein, fiber from broccoli, and calcium from cheese helps in keeping you full and satisfied for longer periods, supporting weight management goals.
With a well-rounded nutritional profile, this dish can be a nutritious addition to your meal rotation, providing a flavorful way to enjoy a healthy and balanced diet.
Serving & Storage
Once the Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to know how to best serve and store this delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve the stuffed chicken breasts hot, straight from the oven, allowing the melted cheese to ooze out invitingly when sliced.
• Pair the chicken with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor.
Storage Tips
• If there are leftovers, allow the stuffed chicken to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it in an airtight container.
• Properly stored, the chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining both its flavor and texture.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Seasonal Twist
– Swap the filling with seasonal ingredients like spinach and feta in the spring, fresh corn and cherry tomatoes in the summer, butternut squash and sage in the fall, or cranberries and pecans in the winter.
– Experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese, gouda, or blue cheese to create unique flavor combinations.
– Add a pop of color and flavor by incorporating roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling.
International Flair
– Give the dish an international spin by using different seasonings and fillings. For instance, try a Mediterranean-inspired version with artichokes, olives, and feta cheese.
– Go Asian by filling the chicken breasts with a mix of bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, and soy sauce.
– Incorporate Mexican flavors with a filling of black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese, served with a side of salsa and avocado.
With these variations, you can transform the classic Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast into a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and occasions. Experimenting with different ingredients and flavors allows you to keep the recipe fresh and exciting each time you prepare it.
FAQs with most people commonly asked questions
How do you stuff chicken breasts with broccoli and cheese?
– Start by slicing a pocket into each chicken breast.
– Mix cooked broccoli and shredded cheese, then stuff the mixture into the pockets.
– Secure the openings with toothpicks to hold in the filling.
– Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What can I serve with Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast?
– This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
– Mashed potatoes or rice make excellent accompaniments to balance the flavors.
– A light vinaigrette dressing on the salad can complement the richness of the stuffed chicken.
– For a complete meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to the table.
Conclusion
Delicious and Nutritious
• Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the freshness of broccoli and the richness of melted cheese.
• By incorporating these ingredients, you create a balanced meal that offers protein from the chicken, vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, and calcium from the cheese.
• This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great option for a satisfying and wholesome dinner for your family.
Easy to Customize and Impressive to Serve
• One of the best features of this dish is its versatility, allowing you to customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients, such as different cheeses or adding spices for extra flavor.
• With an elegant presentation, the Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is sure to impress your guests, making it ideal for dinner parties or special gatherings.
• Whether you are looking for a comforting meal for a cozy night in or a stunning centerpiece for a celebratory occasion, this dish ticks all the boxes.