Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Looking for a dinner idea that feels gourmet but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is your answer. Featuring juicy chicken breasts filled with mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh asparagus, it’s a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Not only does it pack a punch of flavors, but it’s also fairly simple to make. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to impress both family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Sea salt and pepper to taste
• 12 asparagus stalks, ends trimmed
• 1 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 277 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven reaches the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.
2. Season the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Evenly season each breast with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
3. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully slice each breast horizontally to create a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through. Stuff each pocket with a slice of mozzarella, three asparagus stalks, and a sprinkling of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients not only add incredible flavor but also beautiful color and texture to the dish.
4. Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts. This step is crucial to ensure that the filling stays inside while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken on both sides until it achieves a golden-brown crust, about 3-5 minutes per side. This method adds a rich flavor and texture to the exterior of the chicken.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink inside. Using a cast-iron skillet makes this transition from stove to oven seamless.
7. Serving: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Total Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is not just a meal, but an experience. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Serve this with a light salad or your favorite side of grains for a balanced, satisfying meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the delightful textures that make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Bon appétit!