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If you are searching for a healthy chicken recipe that delivers bold flavor, simple preparation, and restaurant-quality results, this Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken, seasoned vegetables, and melty cheese for a comforting, low-carb meal that works beautifully for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, it is one of the best high-protein dinner recipes to add to your rotation.
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This article breaks down everything you need to know to make this dish successfully, including ingredient explanations, expert cooking tips, variations, storage methods, and answers to common questions. Whether you are new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this guide ensures your stuffed chicken turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe has become a favorite for several reasons:
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- It is a complete meal packed with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Offers incredible flavor with minimal effort.
- Naturally low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly meal plans.
- Easy enough for weeknight cooking yet impressive enough for guests.
- Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have.
- Great for meal prep, reheating beautifully for lunches throughout the week.
If you enjoy high-quality, nutrient-dense recipes that do not compromise on taste, this stuffed chicken breast will quickly become a go-to dinner.
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Ingredients Breakdown
Understanding the ingredients and why they are used helps guarantee great results.
• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless breasts are easy to stuff and bake evenly. Large, thick pieces allow room for the filling. Their high protein content makes this dish great for balanced, nutritious meals.
• Seasoning Blend – A mix of salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper adds balanced flavor. Smoked paprika gives warmth, while garlic and onion powders build savory depth.
• Broccoli – Small-diced florets add structure, freshness, and fiber. Lightly blanching them softens the texture so they blend smoothly into the filling.
• Red Bell Pepper – Brings mild sweetness, bright color, and a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
• Cheese – Colby-jack melts into a creamy, rich filling. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey jack also work well.
• Mayonnaise – Helps bind the filling and keeps it creamy during baking. It also prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken to create a golden exterior and lock in moisture. Works well at medium-high heat and is a heart-healthy fat.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stuffed Chicken
To make sure your Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket without slicing through the other side.
- Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Do not overstuff the chicken; divide the filling evenly.
- Sear the chicken before baking to improve texture and color.
- Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
- For easier stuffing, chill the filling for 10 minutes to firm it up.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is flexible and can be customized to your preference.
Cheese Options
- Cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Pepper Jack for a spicy kick
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Zucchini
- Caramelized onions
Flavor Enhancements
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Mix cream cheese into the filling for extra richness.
- Use Cajun, Italian, or ranch seasoning instead of the original blend.
Protein Variations
- Use turkey cutlets
- Try pork loin stuffed with the same filling
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted baby potatoes
- Cauliflower rice
- Steamed vegetables
- Garden salad
- Creamy pasta
- Herb rice
For low-carb dinners, pair with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a simple salad.
Storage Instructions
You can store and reheat this dish easily, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap each cooked stuffed chicken breast individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken.
Popular Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
You can, but thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling.
Can I skip the searing step?
Searing adds great flavor and color, but you may skip it and go straight to baking if needed. Add 3–5 minutes to the bake time.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer and ensure the thickest part reaches 165°F.

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast and open it gently.
- Mix salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In another bowl, combine broccoli, red bell pepper, colby-jack cheese, mayonnaise, and 1 teaspoon of the seasoning. Mix well.
- Stuff each chicken breast evenly with the filling and secure with toothpicks.
- Season the outside of the chicken with the remaining seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until lightly golden.
- Cover skillet with foil and transfer to the oven.
- Bake 18–20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes, remove toothpicks, and serve.
Notes
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