Julie Recipes
Ingredients:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
1 tbsp water
1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by preparing the broccoli. Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with about 2 tablespoons of water, cover it with plastic wrap, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can steam the broccoli on the stovetop or blanch it in boiling water for about 1 minute until it’s vibrant green.
Step 2: While the broccoli is steaming, take each chicken breast and slice it horizontally to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through; leave about 1/2 inch at each end intact.
Step 3: Season the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the chicken with delicious flavors right from the start.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed and chopped broccoli with the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined for a cheesy, flavorful stuffing.
Step 5: Carefully spoon the broccoli and cheese mixture into each pocket of the chicken breasts, distributing the filling evenly. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the opening of each chicken breast.
Cooking Note:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large cast-iron or oven-safe pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Suggestions for Presentation:
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it open to reveal the cheesy filling. Serve on a plate with a side of steamed vegetables or salad to complement the dish. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for an elegant touch.
Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before preparing the pockets.
Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables, such as spinach or bell pepper, for extra nutrition and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 450m
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a perfect way to turn an ordinary weeknight dinner into a festive gathering. The combination of tender chicken and a rich, creamy filling not only makes this dish delicious but also provides nutritional benefits from the broccoli. It’s a simple recipe that delivers impressive results, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress guests or simply treat themselves to a hearty, homemade meal.
