Broccoli and White Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Perfect for a snow day: this yummy recipe is quick, easy, and tastes rich and indulgent, even though it's not loaded with calories or fat thanks to a few healthy hacks. Incorporating whole wheat bread crumbs, using small amounts of low-fat cheese, heart-healthy coconut oil, and loading these up with tons of good-for-you broccoli ensure that this dish won't break the calorie bank for those still sticking to their New Year's Resolutions.
INGREDIENTS
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3/4 cup low-fat shredded white cheddar cheese (note: mozzarella is an excellent alternate option)
1 cup steamed broccoli, diced
1/4 cup whole wheat Italian bread crumbs
2 tbs grated parmesan cheese
2 tbs coconut oil
salt and pepper
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 450 degrees
Lightly spray a baking sheet with oil (I prefer coconut oil)
In a small mixing bowl, combine your steamed broccoli with the white cheddar cheese while broccoli is still warm. Stir to combine until cheese is melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Next, using a sharp knife, slice chicken breasts in half, making sure to not cut all of the way through - we want to keep one edge of the breast in tact
Spoon broccoli and cheese mixture into chicken breasts, close breasts. If needed, use some cooking twine to tie breast shut and keep all of the mixture inside
Next, it's time to set up our work station:
Place two large bowls side by side, and your pre-oiled baking sheet at the end of the row
In the first large bowl, combine your 2 tbs oil and salt and pepper
In the second large bowl (the one closest to your baking sheet, combine your bread crumbs and parmesan
Carefully pick up each breast and dip first into the oil mixture, and then into the breadcrumbs making sure the breast is evenly coated.
TIP: If you have trouble dipping both sides of the breast into the oil and breadcrumbs without losing your filling, focus on dipping the bottom and place on baking sheet. Once all bottom-dipped breasts are on your baking sheet, cover the tops with the remaining oil mixutre and coat the tops with the breadcrumbs using your hands.
Bake for 30 minutes
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