Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

This easy yet elegant asparagus stuffed chicken breast recipe is a perfect way to elevate a simple chicken dinner. With tender chicken filled with fresh asparagus, creamy mozzarella, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s equally suited for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: A delicious combination of well-seasoned chicken and savory stuffing.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, low in carbs, and gluten-free.
• Simple Elegance: Quick preparation with a gourmet touch, perfect for entertaining.

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make the recipe seamlessly:

• Sharp knife: For precise pocket cuts.
• Cutting board: Ensures a clean and organized prep area.
• Cast-iron skillet: Ideal for searing and baking.
• Toothpicks: Keeps the stuffing secure during cooking.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness (165°F/74°C).

Preparation Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh asparagus and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor.
2. Uniform Chicken Breasts: If needed, gently pound the chicken to even thickness.
3. Secure Stuffing Well: Use toothpicks to prevent filling from spilling during cooking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:

• Chicken:
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lb).
• Seasoning:
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste.
• Filling:
  • 12 asparagus stalks, ends trimmed.
  • 1 ounce sun-dried tomatoes, chopped.
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese.
• For Cooking:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Chicken
   • Lay the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board.
   • Sprinkle both sides evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Cut the Pockets
   • Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the thick side of each chicken breast. Avoid cutting all the way through.
4. Prepare the Filling
   • Lay three asparagus stalks on a slice of mozzarella cheese.
   • Sprinkle with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
   • Roll the cheese slice around the asparagus and tomatoes to hold the filling together.
5. Stuff the Chicken
   • Gently stuff each chicken breast with the prepared filling.
   • Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep everything in place.
6. Sear the Chicken
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
7. Bake to Perfection
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
8. Serve and Enjoy
   • Carefully remove toothpicks from the chicken before serving.
   • Plate and enjoy your flavorful, juicy asparagus stuffed chicken breasts.

Notes and Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Alternatives: Try swapping asparagus for broccoli or zucchini.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning for a kick.
• Cooking Oil: Use avocado or grapeseed oil if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your asparagus stuffed chicken breast with these delicious side dishes:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb option that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and lightly seasoned, these add a delightful crunch.
3. Lemon-Herb Quinoa: A refreshing, zesty grain that complements the chicken’s flavors.
4. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds: A simple yet elegant side for extra crunch.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella add a Mediterranean flair.
6. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a classic, comforting pairing.
7. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: A light, veggie-packed alternative to regular rice.
8. Simple Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze: A tangy salad to cut through the richness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling the Chicken
   • Adding too much filling can make it difficult to seal the pockets, leading to leaks during cooking.
   • Tip: Use the suggested amounts or slightly less if your chicken breasts are smaller.
2. Skipping the Sear
   • Searing locks in the juices and creates a golden crust, adding flavor and texture.
   • Tip: Always sear the chicken before baking.
3. Uneven Chicken Thickness
   • Uneven thickness leads to inconsistent cooking, with some parts overdone while others remain undercooked.
   • Tip: Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness.
4. Under-Seasoning
   • Lack of seasoning can result in bland chicken.
   • Tip: Season each layer, from the chicken exterior to the filling.
5. Overcooking the Chicken
   • Overbaking can dry out the chicken.
   • Tip: Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Forgetting the Toothpicks
   • Without securing the opening, the filling may spill out during cooking.
   • Tip: Secure with toothpicks and remove them before serving.

Perfecting the Recipe

• Balance Flavors: Incorporate tangy sun-dried tomatoes and creamy mozzarella for a balanced bite.
• Timing is Key: Bake just long enough to cook the chicken through without drying it out.
• Presentation Matters: Serve sliced chicken on a platter with sides for an eye-catching presentation.

Recipe Tips

Customization Ideas

• Cheese Alternatives
  • Swap mozzarella with provolone, Swiss, or even feta for a unique flavor twist.
• Vegetable Variations
  • Replace asparagus with broccoli florets, spinach leaves, or zucchini slices for variety.
• Herb Enhancements
  • Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme to the filling for an aromatic boost.
• Add a Kick
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with a touch of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigerator
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer
  • Freeze stuffed and cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Oven
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the chicken with foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop
  • Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
• Microwave
  • Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but note they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

What other cheeses work well?

Provolone, Gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives. For a tangy option, try goat cheese.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is low-carb and perfect for keto diets. Just ensure any substitutions align with your dietary needs.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely and focus on seasoned veggies as the filling.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken juicy?

• Do not overcook—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Searing before baking helps lock in the juices.

Conclusion

The asparagus stuffed chicken breast recipe is a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or elegant entertaining. With tender chicken, fresh asparagus, creamy mozzarella, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every bite offers a perfect balance of taste and satisfaction.

Whether paired with a simple side salad or a comforting mash, this versatile dish promises to impress. Its straightforward preparation and customizable ingredients make it an essential recipe for your collection.

Give it a try today, and let this delicious dish become a favorite at your table!

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Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

This easy and flavorful chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with asparagus, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfectly seasoned and seared to golden perfection, then baked to juicy tenderness, this dish is a delightful main course that’s simple to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Calories: 277kcal

Ingredients

• 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lb)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Sea salt and pepper to taste
• 12 asparagus stalks ends trimmed
• 1 ounce sun-dried tomatoes chopped
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Season Chicken:

• Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Sprinkle both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper.

Cut Pockets:

• Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast lengthwise. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Prepare the Filling:

• Trim and wash the asparagus stalks. Lay three asparagus stalks and a few pieces of sun-dried tomatoes on a slice of mozzarella cheese, then roll it up to hold the filling together.

Stuff the Chicken:

• Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese-asparagus-tomato roll. Secure the opening with a toothpick to keep the filling in place.

Sear the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown.

Bake:

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Serve:

• Remove the toothpicks and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

Cheese: Mozzarella can be substituted with provolone or another favorite cheese.
Vegetables: Swap the asparagus for broccoli or another veggie of your choice.
Oil: Use any cooking oil you prefer, such as avocado or grapeseed oil.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve the chicken’s juiciness.