🧀 Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken Skillet

🍗 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Filling:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli, finely chopped
• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional for extra crisp:

• 2 tbsp flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• ⅓ cup panko or breadcrumbs

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix:

• Chopped steamed broccoli
• Shredded cheddar
• Cream cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Mix until creamy and cohesive. Set aside.

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2. Prep the Chicken

• Butterfly each chicken breast (slice horizontally, not all the way through, to open like a book).
• Season the outside and inside with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

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3. Stuff the Chicken

• Spoon the broccoli-cheese mixture into each butterflied chicken breast.
• Close the breasts and secure with toothpicks if needed.

Optional crisp coating:
Dredge lightly in flour → dip in beaten egg → coat with panko for a crunchy crust.

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4. Cook in the Skillet

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
• Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.

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5. (Optional) Finish in the Oven

• If the breasts are thick, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

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🥘 Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Buttered rice
• Roasted carrots or a simple green salad