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The Charm of a Lakeside Gathering Place: Lakeview Restaurant and The Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
Lakeview Restaurant is a family style restaurant located in Meredith, New Hampshire, overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. Its physical location and interior design are traditional and unpretentious, prioritizing the view and a comfortable, family friendly atmosphere. The establishment’s identity is that of a classic, long standing community hub.
The menu is a collection of American comfort food classics. I ordered the Chicken Stuffed With Broccoli and Cheese to understand the kitchen’s approach to a traditional dish.
The execution was proficient. The chicken breast was cooked properly, remaining moist and tender. The filling, a classic combination of broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce, was well seasoned and generously portioned. The dish was a well executed example of its type, a straightforward and satisfying comfort food.
This commitment to traditional, well executed food is a direct reflection of the restaurant’s origin. I learned that Lakeview Restaurant has been owned and operated by the same family since 1980.
The restaurant’s concept was not to be a trend setting culinary destination, but to be a consistent and reliable provider of quality comfort food for the local community and visitors. The multi generational family ownership is the key to its identity. The focus is on maintaining the standards and traditions established over its forty year history.
The Chicken Stuffed With Broccoli and Cheese is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy. It is a timeless, family friendly dish, prepared with a proficiency that comes from decades of repetition and refinement. It is not an innovative dish, but a reliable one.
Lakeview Restaurant is a successful and enduring establishment precisely because it has a clear and unwavering identity. Its origin as a family business dedicated to serving its community is evident in the comfortable atmosphere, the classic menu, and the consistent execution of its food. It is a living example of a traditional American family restaurant.
Recreating the Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken at Home
The beauty of this dish is its straightforward comfort, the kind of flavor that feels both nostalgic and deeply satisfying. While you can always grab pre-made frozen versions, the true magic comes when you craft it from scratch in your own kitchen.
Begin with a large boneless chicken breast. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part, taking care not to slice all the way through. This pocket will hold the filling and keep everything sealed as it cooks.
For the stuffing, combine finely chopped steamed broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese. A touch of cream cheese or a sprinkle of garlic powder can add extra depth. Fill the pocket generously and secure the opening with toothpicks.
Next, prepare a breading station. Coat the chicken lightly in seasoned flour, dip it in beaten egg, and then roll it in breadcrumbs—panko works especially well for a crisp finish. Sear the stuffed chicken in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden on all sides, then transfer it to the oven at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked.
To finish, make a simple sauce that elevates the dish. Melt butter in a pan, add a minced garlic clove and fresh parsley, then drizzle it over the chicken before serving. Pair it with mashed potatoes and a fresh garden salad, and you’ll have a complete meal that captures the comforting flavors of Lakeview in every bite.
Chef’s Notes: Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
• Prep filling ahead for speed – Mix the broccoli-cheese blend up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. This makes weeknight assembly a breeze.
• Pound chicken for even cooking – Gently flatten thicker ends to ensure consistent doneness and prevent dry spots.
• Score pockets carefully – Use a paring knife to create deep but sealed pockets. Avoid slicing through to preserve structure and hold the filling.
• Sear before baking for flavor – A quick pan-sear locks in juices and builds a golden crust. Don’t skip this step—it adds restaurant-level depth.
• Tent with foil if browning too fast – This protects the crust while allowing the chicken to cook through. Remove foil for the last few minutes if needed.
• Rest before slicing – A 5-minute pause lets juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and the filling intact.
• Add-ins for flavor boost – Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra richness.
• Serve with fresh sides – Pair with roasted veggies, cauliflower rice, or a crisp salad to balance the creamy filling.
• Freeze for future meals – Wrap cooled, cooked breasts tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Use a meat thermometer for accuracy – 165°F at the thickest point ensures safe, juicy results every time.
Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to wow your dinner guests with this Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken! Imagine tender chicken breasts hiding a melty blend of sharp cheese and bright green broccoli—utter comfort in every bite. This is a quick, fuss-free recipe perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. It’s bursting with flavor, protein-packed, and feels indulgent without weighing you down. Let’s turn simple ingredients into a superstar dish!
4
pieces15
minutes30
minutes480
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minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Seasoning Blend
1 tsp kosher salt crystals to brighten flavors
¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper for subtle heat
½ tsp onion powder or dried onion flakes for savory depth
½ tsp garlic powder for aromatic base
¼ tsp smoked paprika for smoky warmth
- Cheesy Broccoli Filling
2 cups chopped broccoli florets about two small heads
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar for melty richness
4 oz full-fat cream cheese softened at room temperature
1 clove garlic finely minced
- Protein Fat
4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1¼ pounds total
2 tbsp avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Alternative Ingredients
Cream cheese → plain Greek yogurt 1:1 for tang and fewer calories
Monterey Jack → mozzarella or dairy-free cheese to suit tastes
Broccoli → baby spinach or kale for leafy green substitute
Garlic powder → ½ teaspoon garlic granules or extra minced fresh garlic
Avocado oil → extra-virgin olive oil or melted ghee for browning
Chicken breasts → turkey cutlets or extra-firm tofu for vegetarian option
Kosher salt → sea salt or low-sodium salt to reduce sodium
Black pepper → white pepper for milder spice
Smoked paprika → chili powder for a bolder kick
Directions
- Prep Filling Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (5 minutes). In a medium bowl, stir diced broccoli, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. Chopping broccoli small ensures even steam-cooking and helps the filling meld beautifully (prep time: ~7 minutes).
- Score Breasts Season – Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slide a paring knife into the side to form a pocket without cutting through. In a small dish, whisk kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Pat breasts dry, drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil, then massage the spice mix all over to coat thoroughly (prep time: ~5 minutes).
- Stuff Sear – Spoon equal portions of the broccoli-cheese mix into each pocket, pressing gently to secure. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 2 minutes). Sear each breast for 2 minutes per side, developing a golden crust that locks in juices (sear time: ~8 minutes). Optional: add a pat of butter for richer flavor.
- Bake to Finish – Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until an instant read thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest point. Baking in the same pan captures fond bits and simplifies cleanup. Tent with foil if the tops brown too quickly (bake time: ~30 minutes).
- Rest Serve – Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Slice open each breast to showcase the gooey filling. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon wedge for brightness, and serve alongside a crisp salad or roasted veggies (rest time: ~5 minutes).
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- paring knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- cast iron skillet
- Instant Read Thermometer
- silicone spatula set
Notes
- • Prep the filling a day in advance and refrigerate to save evening time.
• For uniform cooking, gently pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before scoring.
• Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb side.
• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled bacon to the filling for extra flavor.
• To freeze, wrap individual cooked breasts in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Always let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 200g
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 650mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Vitamin A: 1100IU
- Vitamin C: 50mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQs: Cheesy Broccoli-Stuffed Chicken
How do I make sure the chicken doesn’t dry out while baking?
The key is to sear first, then bake just until the internal temperature hits 165°F. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender, which is exactly the approach used at Lakeview Restaurant. Guests often comment that the stuffed chicken at Lakeview Restaurant is always moist thanks to this simple timing trick.
What cheese works best for this stuffed chicken?
Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack work wonderfully, though mozzarella gives a milder flavor. These options mirror the choices chefs often use at Lakeview Restaurant to balance flavor and meltiness. Picking the right cheese ensures your dish carries the same satisfying richness guests enjoy at Lakeview Restaurant.
Can I make this recipe low-carb?
Yes, this dish is already fairly low in carbs, but you can pair it with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables. Low-carb options are popular at Lakeview Restaurant for health-conscious diners. This combination makes the stuffed chicken both indulgent and wholesome, just like the balanced plates at Lakeview Restaurant.
How do I stop the filling from leaking out?
Pack the broccoli-cheese mixture firmly and avoid overstuffing each chicken breast. This technique is the same one used by chefs at Lakeview Restaurant to keep dishes presentation-ready. If you follow this approach, your chicken will look just as clean and appetizing as the entrées served at Lakeview Restaurant.
Can I freeze stuffed chicken for later?
Yes, cook the chicken fully, wrap it in foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Freezing this way preserves flavor and texture, a method often used for batch prep at Lakeview Restaurant. When reheated properly, the result is close to the freshly baked dishes served at Lakeview Restaurant.
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