Description
Delicious and healthy Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast featuring tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy cheese mixture and fresh asparagus, seared to perfection, then baked until juicy and flavorful. This easy-to-make meal combines the freshness of asparagus with gooey mozzarella and cream cheese, enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices, perfect for a fulfilling dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12-16 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or goat cheese for a tangy twist)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast without cutting through completely. This pouch will hold the stuffing and asparagus.
- Make the stuffing: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Dijon mustard if using, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until creamy and well combined.
- Stuff the chicken: Spoon the cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket, then add 3 to 4 trimmed asparagus spears inside. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary and keep the stuffing intact while cooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet or move the chicken breasts to a prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through.
- Serve: Carefully remove toothpicks from the chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Substitute goat cheese for mozzarella for a tangier flavor.
- Make sure to trim asparagus to fit inside the chicken breast pockets.
- To avoid the stuffing falling out, secure edges with toothpicks before searing.
- For a dairy-free version, replace cheeses with dairy-free alternatives.
