1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each breast (be sure not to cut all the way through).
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Spoon the broccoli-cheese mixture evenly into each chicken breast pocket.
- Use toothpicks to secure the edges if needed, so the filling doesn’t leak out.
4. Season & Sear
- Brush the outside of the chicken with olive oil or butter.
- Sprinkle with paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Optional: Quickly sear each chicken breast in a hot skillet (2 minutes per side) for extra flavor before baking.
5. Bake or Air Fry
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes.
6. Serve
Remove toothpicks, let rest 5 minutes, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese swap: Try Swiss, pepper jack, or Gouda for different flavors.
- Extra creamy filling: Add 1–2 tablespoons of sour cream to the mixture.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños inside the filling.
- Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic butter rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Protein-packed and nutritious
Golden and crispy outside, cheesy inside
Kid-friendly but impressive enough for guests
Easy to prepare ahead and bake when ready
Final Thought: This Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken is the ultimate comfort food disguised as a healthy meal. Juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and wholesome broccoli come together for a dish that looks fancy but is simple enough for any night of the week.