Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

– Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:

– Pat the chicken breasts dry. Carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut all the way through.

3. Prepare the Filling:

– In a bowl, mix the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic until well combined.

4. Stuff the Chicken:

– Fill each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Secure the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

5. Season the Chicken:

– Combine olive oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Brush this seasoning mix over the stuffed chicken breasts.

6. Bake:

– Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

7. Serve:

– Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving. Enjoy your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

– For Even Cooking: If the chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness before cutting the pockets.
– Cheese Variety: Experiment with other cheeses such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors.
– Add Veggies: Enhance the filling with additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

Indulge in this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The creamy, cheesy filling complements the tender chicken beautifully. It’s sure to be a hit!