Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Introduction
Asparagus stuffed chicken breast is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken and fresh asparagus. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy asparagus, and savory seasonings will surely impress your guests. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to prepare this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– 4 slices of mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps
Follow these steps to create your asparagus stuffed chicken breast:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting it horizontally, but not all the way through, so that you can open it like a book.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
Step 2: Stuffing the Chicken
Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on one side of each chicken breast. Arrange a few asparagus spears on top of the cheese. Fold the other side of the chicken breast over the filling, and secure it with toothpicks to hold everything in place.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations
There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste:
– Instead of mozzarella cheese, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or any other cheese that melts well.
– Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor.
– For a healthier version, you can use turkey breast instead of chicken.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure the best results:
– Make sure to trim the asparagus spears to remove the tough ends before using them for stuffing.
– If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish before placing them in the oven.
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Conclusion
Asparagus stuffed chicken breast is a delightful dish that combines the succulent flavors of chicken and asparagus. With its cheesy filling and perfectly seasoned chicken, it is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a special occasion, this recipe is bound to impress. Try it out and savor the deliciousness!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen asparagus if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen asparagus before using it for stuffing.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. Just make sure to remove them from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before cooking.
3. Can I grill the stuffed chicken breasts instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Grilling the stuffed chicken breasts will add a smoky flavor to the dish. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.