
If you’ve been hunting for a recipe that feels like a culinary hug, look no further than the delightful Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast. This dish combines tender chicken with the vibrant crunch of asparagus, all embraced by savory prosciutto and creamy cheese, creating a meal that feels both elegant and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegantly Simple: This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is impressive yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of salty prosciutto and melty cheese takes the flavor to another level.
- Nutritionally Balanced: It’s packed with protein and fiber-rich asparagus, making it as healthy as it is tasty.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customizable to suit any dietary preference without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is a beautiful dance of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component is essential, playing a crucial role in either enhancing the flavor or creating the perfect texture.
- Asparagus: Adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color, perfectly complementing the tender chicken.
- Prosciutto: Introduces a subtle smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
- Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully, providing gooeyness that holds the chicken and asparagus together.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, the perfect canvas for our tasty filling.
- Olive Oil: Used for seasoning and searing, providing a rich depth of flavor.
- Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: A fragrant medley that seasons the asparagus to perfection.
Variations
Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast. The recipe is wonderfully adaptable to match what you have in your kitchen or your personal dietary needs.
- Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or even gouda for a different cheesy touch.
- Herbier Touch: Add fresh basil or thyme inside the chicken for added aroma and freshness.
- Vegetarian Version: Try using large portobello mushrooms instead of chicken breasts.
How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus
First, ensure your asparagus is clean and thoroughly dried. Trim off those tough ends, leaving you with about 7 inches of vibrant green goodness. Gently toss them with olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to infuse them with flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Wrap the Delight
Divide the asparagus into four bundles. Wrap each with a slice of prosciutto and cheese. This savory wrap turns the humble asparagus into a delectable treat, ready to be snugly embraced by the chicken.
Step 3: Butterfly the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast horizontally without cutting all the way through, leaving a side closed to hold your stuffing. Think of it as creating a pocket to nestle your delicious asparagus bundles.
Step 4: Stuff and Secure
Place an asparagus bundle inside each chicken breast, then use toothpicks to secure the chicken around the filling. This step ensures that all the lovely flavors stay locked in while cooking.
Step 5: Sear and Bake
Heat your skillet, and sear the chicken presentation-side down until beautifully golden. Then transfer to the oven to finish baking, checking to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
Pro Tips for Making Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Perfect Temperature: Ensure your chicken truly reaches 160 to 165ºF to keep it juicy and safe to eat.
- Quick Prep: Prepare asparagus bundles a day ahead to save even more time in the kitchen.
- Make Ahead: Prepare and stuff your chicken breasts a day in advance, keeping them refrigerated.
- Ingredient Selection: Opt for fresh, thick asparagus for a more satisfying bite.
How to Serve Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top just before serving can brighten the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This dish sings when paired with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light, fresh garden salad. Roasted vegetables or a simple risotto would also be delightful companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, slice the chicken and arrange it on a platter with the asparagus tips peeking out. Drizzle the pan juices over the top for added flavor and appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container. These can be refrigerated for up to five days, making this dish perfect for meal prep.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but uncooked chicken breasts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the chicken and microwave on high in 30-second increments until hot. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through.
FAQs
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Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider using bell peppers or green beans for different flavors and textures.
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Do I need to use prosciutto?
While prosciutto adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with bacon or omit it for a lighter dish.
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What’s the best way to butterfly chicken?
Use a sharp knife and make sure to leave one side intact. It helps to slightly freeze the chicken for easier handling.
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Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Simply bake on a greased sheet at 425ºF for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches the right temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a surefire way to impress anyone at your dinner table. Its delightful blend of flavors and textures makes it a beloved choice. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your home!
PrintAsparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast features tender chicken fillets stuffed with flavorful asparagus, prosciutto, and cheese, then seared and baked to perfection. A healthy, elegant, and easy-to-make dish that combines savory flavors and crispy textures for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Asparagus
- 1 pound (454 g) asparagus, about 20 spears
Seasonings and Oil
- 3 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, divided
- 1 1/4 teaspoon (8 g) kosher salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Prosciutto and Cheese
- 2 ounces prosciutto, 4 slices
- 4 slices provolone cheese, or mozzarella, room temperature
Chicken
- 4 (1.4 kg) boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 2 1/2 to 3 pounds total
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat to 375ºF (191ºC). This ensures even baking and a crispy exterior.
- Prepare the Asparagus: Wash and thoroughly dry the asparagus. Trim off tough fibrous ends to about 7-inch length. Toss evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to season evenly.
- Wrap the Asparagus: Divide the seasoned asparagus into 4 equal bundles. Wrap each bundle tightly with one slice of prosciutto and a slice of provolone cheese, securing the filling.
- Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it in half lengthwise, leaving a small uncut portion to keep the halves connected. This creates a pocket for stuffing.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Evenly season each side of the chicken breasts with this mixture.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place one asparagus bundle inside each prepared chicken breast. Secure the opening with toothpicks to hold the filling in place.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil once hot. Place each chicken breast presentation-side down and press lightly to ensure contact with the pan. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160-165ºF (71-74ºC) and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven, transfer to a plate, and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks carefully before serving while still hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days; reheat in microwave in 30-second intervals.
- To make ahead, assemble the stuffed chicken, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before cooking.
- For a quicker version, skip searing and bake the chicken directly at 425ºF (218ºC) on a greased foil-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with stuffing
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1092 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg