Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a tasty dish that brings juicy chicken and fresh asparagus together. It’s wrapped up and baked until golden, making it a real showstopper!
Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a delicious meal that’s also a bit fancy? I love to serve it with a side salad for a perfect dinner that feels special, even if it’s just a Tuesday! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they are easy to stuff. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey breasts work well too.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds great texture and flavor. If it’s out of season, you can use spinach or kale as a delicious alternative. Just make sure to sauté them briefly to reduce moisture.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides a creamy base for the filling. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, try cashew cream.
Cheddar Cheese: I love the sharpness of cheddar, but feel free to use mozzarella for a milder flavor. Or, swap it out for feta for something more tangy and unique!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice sweetness and tang. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked and Stuffed?
Stuffing chicken can sometimes be tricky. Here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Use a sharp knife to make the pocket in each chicken breast. Be gentle so you don’t cut all the way through.
- Don’t overfill the pockets. It’s better to stuff lightly and secure them with toothpicks. This helps prevent any spills while cooking.
- For searing, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This gives a nice golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the chicken when it hits 165°F (75°C) for juicy and safe-to-eat results.
Taking your time with these steps will get you a delicious and beautifully stuffed chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. So, plan for about 45-50 minutes from start to finish to create a lovely meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your chicken!
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side. Make sure not to cut all the way through, so the filling stays inside!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Stuff each chicken breast with the creamy cheese mixture and add a few asparagus spears into each pocket to give it a tasty crunch. If your filling looks like it might spill out, don’t hesitate to use some toothpicks to secure the opening.
5. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats up, season the outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any extra herbs you love. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
6. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, carefully transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (look for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
7. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Lastly, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty asparagus stuffed chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before starting. The best method for thawing is to place them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water for a couple of hours.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option. Both will provide a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly. Add a pinch of seasoning to enhance the taste if needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Consider adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely so they fit into the chicken pockets easily!
