Description
This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with fresh asparagus spears and melted mozzarella or provolone cheese. Seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and herbs, then seared to golden perfection and baked until juicy and tender. A delicious, elegant meal perfect for a healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
Seasoning and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Carefully slice a pocket lengthwise into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through, creating space for the filling. Stuff each pocket with 3 trimmed asparagus spears and one slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese. Secure the opening using toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside while cooking.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each stuffed chicken breast to add flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Bake Chicken: Transfer the oven-safe skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake the chicken breasts for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Enjoy your perfectly cooked asparagus stuffed chicken breasts!
Notes
- Ensure not to cut all the way through the chicken breast when making pockets to keep the filling intact.
- If toothpicks or twine are unavailable, use small skewers to secure the chicken pockets.
- You can substitute mozzarella or provolone with other melting cheeses like Swiss or cheddar according to your preference.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain moisture and improves flavor.
