Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken

Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
Originally published as Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken in Reminisce Extra February 2000, p45. I WAS BORN in 1936 to a family of eight. Much of our food came from our garden and the henhouse at the back of our city lot. Mother served fried chicken every Sunday, but sometimes she surprised us with this creation. No arguments then as to who got what piece of chicken! -Donald Laugherty, Connellsville, Pennsylvania
  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Served Person: 2
contains white meat tree nut free nut free contains gluten red meat free shellfish free contains dairy
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
  • 1 cup fresh broccoli finely chopped
  • cooked rice hot, optional
  • Carbohydrate 31.3165025 g
  • Cholesterol 98.1025 mg
  • Fat 11.356685 g
  • Fiber 1.79457496869564 g
  • Protein 38.3004125 g
  • Saturated Fat 6.44195825 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 (342g)
  • Sodium 499.442 mg
  • Sugar 29.5219275313044 g
  • Trans Fat 1.135378 g
  • Calories 388 calories
Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken: A Family Favorite

My Grandma's Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken: A Taste of Home

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a journey back to my childhood. Growing up, Sundays meant one thing: Grandma's fried chicken. But sometimes, she'd surprise us with something truly special – her Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken. It wasn't just a meal; it was an event. The aroma alone would fill our little kitchen, a promise of warmth, comfort, and a taste of home that I still crave today. The memory of this dish is tightly woven into the fabric of my family life, reminding me of simpler times, of family gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite is a nostalgic trip back, a comforting hug from the past. This isn't just a recipe; it's a legacy.

The thing I loved most about this chicken was the surprise element. We were so used to the crispy, golden-brown fried chicken that this stuffed variation felt like a delightful adventure. It was a special occasion dish, one that made Sunday dinner even more exciting. And the best part? No arguments over who got which piece! Everyone got a generous portion of this flavorful, tender chicken, and there was always plenty to go around. The tender chicken, bursting with the flavors of broccoli and cheese, was a revelation, a far cry from the usual routine. It's a testament to the magic of simple ingredients, expertly combined and perfectly cooked. The addition of curry powder gave it a subtle exotic flair that I never tired of.

I remember watching Grandma in the kitchen, her hands moving with a practiced grace, a symphony of careful preparation. The way she folded the chicken breast around the broccoli and cheese filling, securing it with a toothpick; it looked like a little work of art. She always seemed to know exactly how long it needed to bake, creating this perfectly moist and flavorful dish. It’s a testament to her skill and years of experience in the kitchen. The aroma that wafted from the oven is forever etched in my memory—a comforting blend of savory chicken, subtle spices, and a hint of creamy cheese. Now, as a busy mom myself, I find that creating this dish serves as more than just meal prep; it's a way to connect with my roots, carry on a culinary tradition, and make those precious memories come alive for my children.

This dish is more than just food; it’s a connection to the past, a reminder of simpler times, and a celebration of family. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, passed down through generations, and continues to bring people together around the table. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel loved and nourished, both in body and soul. It’s easy to make, yet sophisticated in flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So, gather your ingredients, create some memories, and savor each and every bite of this delicious family heirloom.

Beyond its delicious taste, this Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken holds a special place in my heart. It represents not only a recipe, but also a link to my family history and the warmth of my childhood home. Each time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to those simpler times, surrounded by the love and laughter of my family. The act of cooking it becomes a cherished ritual, a way to honor my Grandma's legacy and share this culinary treasure with my own loved ones. It’s more than just food; it’s an heirloom, a tradition, a taste of home—and that's something truly priceless.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s a simple but elegant dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broccoli, and creamy cheese is irresistible, and the addition of curry powder adds a unique twist. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family and I have for generations. And who knows, it might just become your family's new favorite Sunday supper, bringing together generations and creating memories as wonderful as the ones I have.

Step-by-step

    • Flatten chicken to 1/4-inch thickness.
    • Combine poultry seasoning, pepper, curry powder, garlic powder, and salt; sprinkle over chicken.
    • Combine broccoli and cheese; place half in the center of each chicken breast.
    • Fold long sides over filling; fold ends up and secure with a toothpick.
    • Place, seam side down, in an 8-inch square baking pan.
    • Add broth.
    • Cover pan loosely with foil.
    • Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
    • Remove foil; baste the chicken with pan juices.
    • Bake, uncovered, 10 minutes longer or until meat juices run clear.
    • Remove toothpicks before serving.
    • Thicken pan juices for gravy if desired.
    • Serve with rice if desired.