Name: Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 large chicken breast halves (24 oz total); 1 large egg (acts as a binder for the filling); 2 tsp water (to mix with the egg and for breadcrumb mixture); 3/4 cup whole wheat seasoned bread crumbs (adds a crispy texture); 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cooked and chopped small); 5 slices reduced fat Swiss cheese (for a creamy, flavorful filling); pinch salt (enhances flavors)

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If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and nutritious weeknight meal, look no further than Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy filling that’s loaded with fresh broccoli. It’s a delightful way to sneak in those greens while satisfying your cheese cravings. Serve this dish with a side salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Stands Out

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it combines the lean protein of chicken with the nutritional powerhouse of broccoli, creating a balanced dish rich in flavor and health benefits. The use of reduced-fat Swiss cheese adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish with calories. Moreover, the whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch, making every bite a satisfying experience. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your taste preferences.

What to Buy

3 large chicken breast halves (24 oz total) – Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
1 large egg – This acts as a binder for the filling.
2 tsp. water – To mix with the egg.
3/4 cup whole wheat seasoned bread crumbs – Adds a crispy texture.
2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, just ensure they are cooked and chopped small.
5 slices reduced fat Swiss cheese – For a creamy, flavorful filling.
Pinch of salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Sharp knife – For slicing the chicken and chopping the broccoli.
Cutting board – A safe surface for food prep.
Mixing bowl – To combine the filling ingredients.
Baking dish – For cooking the stuffed chicken.
Meat mallet or rolling pin – To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.

Cooking Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Filling

Begin by cooking the broccoli florets until they are tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply steam it according to the package instructions. Once cooked, chop the broccoli into small pieces and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy.

Step 4: Create the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, 2 slices of Swiss cheese (chopped), the egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined. This cheesy broccoli mixture will be the star of your stuffed chicken.

Step 5: Stuff the Chicken

Take a chicken breast and place a generous amount of the broccoli filling in the center. Fold the chicken over the filling, ensuring it is well sealed. You can use toothpicks to secure the edges if needed. Repeat this process for the remaining chicken breasts.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken

In a shallow dish, mix the whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs with 2 teaspoons of water. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken. Dip each stuffed chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Cut the remaining slices of Swiss cheese in half and place them on top of each chicken breast for extra cheesy goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in each bite!

Variations by Season

Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the broccoli filling for a bright flavor.
Summer: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
Fall: Mix in some cooked, diced butternut squash for added sweetness and texture.
Winter: Add cooked spinach or kale to the filling for a hearty boost of nutrients.

Missteps & Fixes

If the filling spills out during cooking, ensure that the chicken is tightly folded over the filling and consider using toothpicks to secure the edges.
If the chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove from the oven immediately once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
If the breadcrumbs don’t stick, ensure that the chicken is damp from the egg wash, and consider adding a little more water to the breadcrumb mixture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the stuffed chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to cook, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Reader Questions

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta for a different taste profile.

What if I don’t like broccoli?

No problem! You can replace the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even finely chopped bell peppers to suit your preferences.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear.

Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Just ensure that you secure the filling well, and grill on medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

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Serve & Enjoy

This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is not only a feast for the taste buds, but it also brings a nutritious twist to your dinner table. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a wholesome meal that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and watch it turn into a go-to family favorite!

The combination of juicy chicken with a cheesy and nutritious filling makes this dish stand out. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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