Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and elegant dish, perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated weeknight dinner. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a savory blend of asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese, all seasoned with aromatic spices. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and visually appealing meal.
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 oz Sun-dried Tomatoes, chopped
- 4 slices Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each chicken breast and make a horizontal cut along the side to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with this spice mix, along with sea salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Place three asparagus stalks, a few pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, and a slice of mozzarella cheese into each chicken breast pocket. If the filling is too much, adjust the quantity so that you can close the pocket with toothpicks securely.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they have a nice golden crust.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (if your skillet is not oven-proof, transfer the chicken to a baking dish). Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm.
Cooking Note:
- Be cautious while flipping the stuffed chicken in the skillet to prevent the filling from falling out. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the stuffing inside the chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast can be served with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a light salad, mashed potatoes, or rice. It pairs well with a glass of white wine.
Tips:
- Chicken Preparation: Ensure that the chicken breasts are not too thick; otherwise, they will take longer to cook.
- Asparagus Tips: Use tender asparagus for easier eating and better flavor.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Gouda.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (varies based on the size of the chicken breasts and specific ingredients used)
- Protein: 20-25g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the amount of added salt
Conclusion
Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy option that's both flavorful and filling. It's a great way to enjoy a balanced and nutritious meal without compromising on taste. This dish's combination of tender chicken, fresh asparagus, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy cheese is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.
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