Discover the Best Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe that combines juicy chicken, fresh asparagus, and creamy cheese for an effortlessly delicious meal. This asparagus stuffed chicken breast is popular not only for its delightful flavors but also for its simplicity, making it a fantastic choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With just a few easy steps, you’ll be serving up a meal that’s both nutritious and mouthwatering.
Why You’ll Love This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Quick and Easy: Only 45 minutes needed from start to finish.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein and the health benefits of asparagus.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Easy to make ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.
- Versatile Ingredients: Simple swaps and additions can suit various dietary needs.
Ingredients for Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Dietary Swaps: - For a gluten-free option, ensure all cheeses are certified gluten-free.
- Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter calorie count.
- Substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast – Step by Step
Preparing the Filling
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, asparagus pieces, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.Stuffing the Chicken
Step 3: Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut through entirely.
Step 4: Stuff each chicken breast with the asparagus and cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if necessary.Cooking the Chicken
Step 5: Season the outside of each chicken breast with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 7: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.Easy Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe – A Delightful Meal in 45 Minutes Pro Tips for Making the Best Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Can I make asparagus stuffed chicken breast ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the chicken a day in advance, then cook when needed.
- What is the secret to the best asparagus stuffed chicken breast? Ensure that the cream cheese is soft for easy mixing and stuffing, and don’t forget to season thoroughly for flavor depth.
- For extra crispy skin, you can use crushed breadcrumbs to coat the chicken before baking.
Best Ways to Serve Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside fresh garden salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Complement with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, to enhance the flavors.
- For related recipes, explore our Easy Grilled Asparagus Recipe or Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
Nutritional Information for Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 48g
- Fat: 22g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and variations.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each stuffed breast individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out.
FAQs for Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Can I freeze asparagus stuffed chicken breast?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese in asparagus stuffed chicken breast?
You can substitute it with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile. For a non-dairy option, use your favorite plant-based cheese.
Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
Certainly! Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions to the stuffing.
Do I need to blanch the asparagus before stuffing?
No, as long as the asparagus is cut into small pieces, it will become tender during the baking process.Related Recipes for Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Easy Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and healthy chicken dish stuffed with creamy asparagus and cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, asparagus pieces, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast, ensuring not to cut through entirely.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the asparagus and cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Season the outside of each chicken breast with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature.
- You can add additional vegetables to the stuffing if desired.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 99mg
Keywords: chicken, asparagus, stuffed chicken, healthy meals, cream cheese