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1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and is easier to roll, you’ll want to butterfly the chicken. Slice each breast horizontally, but not all the way through, so it opens up like a book. If the chicken is particularly thick, you can also use a meat mallet to gently pound the breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Once cooked, remove from the heat and let the broccoli cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed broccoli, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy. This cheesy broccoli filling is what will go inside the chicken roll-ups.
4. Stuff the Chicken
Spoon a generous amount of the broccoli and cheese mixture onto the center of each chicken breast. Roll up the chicken tightly, securing the filling inside. You can use toothpicks to help hold the chicken together if needed.
5. Prepare the Coating
Brush the outside of each chicken roll-up with the beaten egg to help the breadcrumbs adhere (this step is optional if you prefer a lighter version). Then, roll the chicken in breadcrumbs for a crispy golden exterior. If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you can skip this step, and the chicken will still turn out delicious.
6. Bake the Chicken Roll-Ups
Place the chicken roll-ups seam side down in a greased baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The chicken will be golden brown on the outside and perfectly juicy on the inside.
7. Make the Sauce (Optional)
While the chicken is baking, you can prepare a creamy sauce to serve with the roll-ups. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, and shredded cheddar cheese over medium heat. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is optional, but it adds a wonderful richness to the dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken roll-ups are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. If you made the cheese sauce, drizzle it over the top of the chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Roll-Ups
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice texture and flavor to the stuffing. If you use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Customize the Cheese: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can mix things up by using other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Add Some Heat: For a bit of a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the broccoli filling.
- Make Ahead: These roll-ups can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Side Suggestions: Serve these roll-ups with a side of roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Roll-Ups
These Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Roll-Ups combine all the flavors we love: tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious broccoli, making them a comforting and well-balanced meal. The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the rich, cheesy filling inside. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike, especially with its easy-to-make yet elegant presentation.
Not only do these roll-ups taste amazing, but they are also a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet in a fun and delicious way. With the option to make the cheese sauce, you can take the dish to the next level, making it feel like a restaurant-quality entrée, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s simple, flavorful, and sure to satisfy, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Roll-Ups are the way to go. They’re quick to prepare, customizable to your preferences, and the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and lean protein. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish will become a new favorite that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
So go ahead and grab those chicken breasts, get your broccoli and cheese ready, and prepare to roll your way to a meal everyone will love!
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