Description
Succulent chicken breasts embracing tender asparagus spears create a delightful Mediterranean-inspired main course. Herb-infused and baked to golden perfection, this elegant dish promises a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds or 680 grams)
- 12 asparagus stalks (ends trimmed)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 ounce (28 grams) sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Cooking Ingredient:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Set the oven to roast at 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Massage chicken breasts with a blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper, coating both surfaces thoroughly.
- Create a precise horizontal pocket along the side of each chicken breast, slicing carefully without piercing through completely.
- Prepare the filling by arranging three asparagus stalks and chopped sun-dried tomatoes atop a slice of mozzarella, then gently roll into a compact bundle.
- Delicately insert the cheese-asparagus-tomato roll into each chicken breast pocket, using toothpicks to seal the opening securely.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3-5 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust develops.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, verifying doneness by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Extract toothpicks, plate the chicken, and serve immediately while warm and aromatic.
Notes
- Slice chicken breasts carefully to create a deep pocket without cutting through, ensuring a secure space for the flavorful filling.
- Choose fresh, crisp asparagus spears and trim the woody ends for a tender and delicious vegetable component.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or goat cheese to customize the flavor profile and suit personal preferences.
- Adjust cooking time slightly for thicker or thinner chicken breasts, always checking internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg