Juicy, tender chicken breasts stuffed with melted mozzarella, crisp asparagus, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes make this dish both delicious and elegant. The combination of cheesy, savory flavors with the fresh crunch of asparagus creates the perfect balance in every bite.
This recipe is great for a healthy, protein-packed meal that looks and tastes restaurant-quality. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Flavorful & Juicy: The perfect mix of melty cheese, tender chicken, and smoky seasoning.
• Healthy & Low Carb: Packed with protein and nutrients without unnecessary carbs.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lb)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Sea salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 12 asparagus stalks, ends trimmed
• 1 oz sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the Chicken:
• Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board.
• Sprinkle both sides evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Create a Pocket:
• Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
4. Prepare the Filling:
• Lay out the mozzarella slices.
• Place 3 asparagus stalks and chopped sun-dried tomatoes on each.
• Roll the mozzarella around the asparagus and tomatoes to create a compact bundle.
5. Stuff the Chicken:
• Place the mozzarella bundle inside each chicken pocket.
• Secure the edges with toothpicks to keep the filling in place.
6. Sear the Chicken:
• Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Bake to Perfection:
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve & Enjoy:
• Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
• Serve with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
• Don’t overfill the chicken to prevent the stuffing from spilling out.
• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking.
Storage Options
• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.
• Freeze: Freeze raw, stuffed chicken for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
