Delicious Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

If you’re looking for a delightful meal that impresses without requiring chef-level skills, look no further than Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast! This dish combines tender chicken with vibrant asparagus and gooey mozzarella, creating a symphony of flavors that your family and friends will love. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely become a hit in your home.

Why Make This Recipe

This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and mouthwatering flavors. Not only does it look stunning on the plate, but it also packs a nutritious punch with lean protein and vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings while still being fancy enough to serve when guests are over. Plus, who can resist that gooey mozzarella melting inside a juicy chicken breast?

How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Ingredients:

• 4 Skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lb.)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• Sea salt and pepper
• 12 Asparagus stalks (end trimmed)
• 1 ounce Sun-dried Tomatoes (chopped)
• 4 slices Mozzarella Cheese
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 F.
2. Place the chicken breasts on a clean chopping board and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper.
3. Carefully cut each chicken breast lengthwise to create pockets, making sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Trim and wash the asparagus stalks. Take three sprigs of asparagus and a few pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, place them on one slice of mozzarella cheese, and roll it up to hold everything inside. Stuff this mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts.
5. Secure the pockets closed with toothpicks. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear until it’s nicely golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Enjoy!

How to Serve Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Serve the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast on a bed of fresh greens or alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add that final touch of elegance. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for the perfect dining experience!

How to Store Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

If you have leftovers (though we doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stuffed chicken breasts before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Tips to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

• Make sure to season the chicken well for maximum flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165 F for safe consumption.
• Consider marinating the chicken for a couple of hours before cooking for even more flavor.

Variation

Feel free to substitute the asparagus with other veggies like spinach or roasted red peppers for a different taste. You can also switch the mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before starting the recipe for even cooking.

2. What can I serve with Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Some great side options are garlic mashed potatoes, a mixed salad, or steamed rice.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast, and get ready for a dish that is sure to impress!