Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Imagine tender chicken breasts stuffed with a mouthwatering mixture of crispy bacon, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. This Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to wow your guests, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a large baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully create a deep pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Chop the steamed broccoli into small pieces and mix with the crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Season the chicken breasts inside and outside with salt and pepper. Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the broccoli-bacon-cheese mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side to create a golden brown exterior.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped bacon or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the broccoli-bacon-cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the chicken.
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It not only adds a beautiful golden crust but also locks in moisture, ensuring your chicken stays juicy.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique twist.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra bits of crumbled bacon on top before serving can elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
