BROCCOLI-CHEDDAR STUFFED CHICKEN BREASTS

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Broccoli-Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts image

I've taken the classic flavors of broccoli Cheddar soup and transformed them into a filling for baked chicken breasts. But feel free to grab whatever cheese, herbs and spices you've got and use those instead. This recipe would also work great with cauliflower and/or any type of cheese that has a decent melt factor. Firmer cheeses like Parmesan and Gruyère would be welcome additions, but I'd steer clear of anything that's extra-soft (think Brie or mascarpone) because we want the filling to stay intact.

Provided by Kelly Senyei

Categories     main-dish

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

3 cups broccoli florets (see Cook's Note)
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or other fresh herbs
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (see Cook's Note)
Garlic powder, ground cumin or other spices
4 tablespoons olive oil

Steps:

  • Position racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 400 degrees F.
  • Place the broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl then add 2 tablespoons water. Cover the bowl (a large plate works best) then microwave for 2 minutes. Remove the broccoli to paper towels, drain very well and let cool slightly.
  • Chop the broccoli into small, pea-sized pieces then return it to the bowl. Add the Cheddar, cream cheese, chives, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Arrange the chicken breasts on a cutting board, and using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket horizontally into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through to the other side.
  • Divide the broccoli mixture among the chicken breasts, pressing it firmly into each pocket.
  • Season the outsides of the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, pepper and any other preferred spices.
  • Divide the olive oil among two ovenproof skillets set over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 2 of the chicken breasts to each skillet. Cook the chicken until seared on one side, about 3 minutes, then flip it once and cook until seared on the other side, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Transfer the skillets to the oven and continue cooking the chicken breasts until the thickest part of each breast reaches 165 degrees F, 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken breasts from the oven and serve.

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