Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
This Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken is a delicious mix of tender, juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy broccoli and cheese mixture. The combo of cheddar, cream cheese, and garlic creates a smooth, savory filling that pairs beautifully with lightly seasoned chicken. It’s easy to prepare, oven-baked or pan-seared, and makes an impressive dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb / 680 g)
1 cup (90 g) steamed broccoli florets, chopped
½ cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup (60 g) cream cheese, softened
1 tsp garlic powder (2 g)
1 tsp paprika (2 g)
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a baking dish.
Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix chopped steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until well combined.
Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder if you like extra flavor.
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thickest side of each breast (don’t cut all the way through).
Stuff the Chicken:
Spoon the broccoli-cheese mixture into each pocket, pressing it in gently.
Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
Season the Outside:
Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken:
Option 1 – Oven-Baked: Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Option 2 – Pan-Seared + Baked: Sear each side in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for 2–3 minutes until golden, then transfer to the oven to finish cooking for 12–15 minutes.
Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips & Variations
Broccoli Prep:
Steam or microwave the broccoli until tender but not mushy. Let it cool before mixing with cheese so it doesn’t melt too early.
Filling Variations:
Swap cheddar for mozzarella, feta, or a Parmesan mix for a more Mediterranean flavor.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for color and a flavor boost.
Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier filling.
Cooking Tips:
Avoid overstuffing — it can cause the filling to leak out.
Use toothpicks or small skewers to seal well.
Always check the center for doneness — a thermometer helps ensure juicy results.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with roasted potatoes, Mediterranean rice, or a couscous salad.
Add a side of tzatziki or lemon herb yogurt sauce for dipping.
Make-Ahead Tip:
You can stuff and season the chicken a few hours ahead. Store covered in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain it well to remove excess water before mixing.
Q: How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Don’t overfill the pocket and make sure to seal it with toothpicks. You can also lightly press the edges of the chicken together before baking.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop only?
Yes. Sear each side over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, covering the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
It already is! Skip the side carbs and serve with a salad or roasted veggies for a low-carb meal.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm throughout.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 340
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 420 mg
(Values may vary slightly based on cheese and oil used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken is the kind of easy dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss. The creamy broccoli filling keeps the chicken moist, while the spices and olive oil bring out a rich, savory flavor. Serve it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.