Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast – Looking for a mouthwatering and satisfying meal? Look no further than our irresistible Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts, flavorful herbs, gooey mozzarella cheese, and vibrant asparagus, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. With its easy preparation and stunning presentation, this recipe is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Every family has that one recipe that becomes an instant favorite, a go-to dish that brings joy and satisfaction to everyone. For my little family, that recipe is the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast. It all started one evening when I decided to surprise my husband with a special dinner. As he took his first bite, his eyes lit up with delight. The combination of tender chicken, savory mozzarella, and the freshness of asparagus took him by surprise. From that day on, this recipe has become a staple in our household, bringing us closer together with each delicious bite. Now, it’s time for you to create your own cherished memories with this delectable dish.
Why This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a Must-Try?
- A delightful combination of tender chicken breasts, gooey mozzarella cheese, and vibrant asparagus, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- The Italian seasoning mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon zest infuse the chicken with a burst of aromatic flavors.
- The asparagus adds a fresh and crisp element to the dish, perfectly complementing the richness of the chicken and cheese.
- The searing of the chicken breasts before baking ensures a beautiful golden crust and locks in the juices, resulting in moist and succulent chicken.
- The toothpick closure technique keeps the filling intact and prevents any mishaps while cooking.
- The finishing touch of a drizzle of pan juices adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lb. or 680g)
- Olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cracked pepper
- 1 tbsp. lemon zest
- 3 tsp minced garlic, divided (2 tsp and 1 tsp)
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 asparagus stalks, ends trimmed
- 1 oz. sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp. butter
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cracked pepper.
Place the chicken breasts on a clean chopping board and cut a pocket on the underside of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Pat each chicken breast dry with a paper towel.
Lightly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, ensuring all sides are covered.
Sprinkle the herb and spice mixture on all sides of each chicken breast, including inside the pocket.
Sprinkle the lemon zest and 1 tsp of minced garlic inside the pockets of each chicken breast.
Stuff the Chicken:
Toss the trimmed asparagus with 2 tsp of olive oil, 2 tsp of minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Place 2 slices of fresh mozzarella, 3 sprigs of asparagus, and a few pieces of chopped sun-dried tomatoes inside the pocket of each chicken breast.
Close each pocket with 2-3 toothpicks to secure the filling.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat 1-2 tbsp. of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet (or oven-proof skillet) over medium-high heat.
Once the pan is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them until nicely golden brown, approximately 5 minutes per side. Adjust the time as needed to achieve a golden crust.
Finish Chicken in the Oven:
Remove the skillet from heat and pour the fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp of minced garlic into the skillet.
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 10-15 minutes covered.
Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of each chicken breast reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and cover it, allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes.
Before serving, remember to remove the toothpicks.
Spoon a little of the pan juices over the chicken to add a final burst of flavor.
Serve the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes:
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with roasted red peppers for a slightly different flavor profile.
- To ensure moist and juicy chicken, be careful not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- If you prefer a milder spice level, you can omit the red pepper flakes.
- Get creative with your fillings! You can add other ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a recipe that deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire. With its enticing combination of tender chicken, melty mozzarella, and fresh asparagus, each bite is a burst of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones with a stunning dinner or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Not only is the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast a feast for the taste buds, but it also holds a special place in our hearts. It has become a beloved favorite in our household, creating lasting memories and bringing us closer together around the dinner table. Now, it’s your turn to create your own stories and cherished moments with this remarkable dish.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you and your loved ones in awe. From its aromatic seasoning to the perfectly cooked chicken and delightful filling, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a cherished staple in your own little family.
Indulge in the joy of creating and savoring this irresistible Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors that will make your heart sing and your palate dance. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can prepare the chicken and stuff it in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and sear and bake it just before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover stuffed chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
To reheat, place the leftover chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat them in a covered skillet over low heat.
Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lb. or 680g)
- Olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cracked pepper
- 1 tbsp. lemon zest
- 3 tsp minced garlic divided (2 tsp and 1 tsp)
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 12 asparagus stalks ends trimmed
- 1 oz. sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp. butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cracked pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts on a clean chopping board and cut a pocket on the underside of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Pat each chicken breast dry with a paper towel.
- Lightly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Sprinkle the herb and spice mixture on all sides of each chicken breast, including inside the pocket.
- Sprinkle the lemon zest and 1 tsp of minced garlic inside the pockets of each chicken breast.
Stuff the Chicken:
- Toss the trimmed asparagus with 2 tsp of olive oil, 2 tsp of minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place 2 slices of fresh mozzarella, 3 sprigs of asparagus, and a few pieces of chopped sun-dried tomatoes inside the pocket of each chicken breast.
- Close each pocket with 2-3 toothpicks to secure the filling.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1-2 tbsp. of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet (or oven-proof skillet) over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them until nicely golden brown, approximately 5 minutes per side. Adjust the time as needed to achieve a golden crust.
Finish Chicken in the Oven:
- Remove the skillet from heat and pour the fresh lemon juice and 1 tsp of minced garlic into the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 10-15 minutes covered.
- Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of each chicken breast reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and cover it, allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Before serving, remember to remove the toothpicks.
- Spoon a little of the pan juices over the chicken to add a final burst of flavor.
- Serve the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with your favorite sides and enjoy!
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