This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken is a tasty dish that wraps tender chicken around fresh asparagus and creamy cheese. It’s like having a veggie and chicken hug all in one bite!
When you slice into it, the melted cheese and crunchy asparagus just shine. I love making this on busy weeknights since it’s simple, quick, and always impresses!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal here for easy stuffing and cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use turkey breast instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using larger pieces.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch and color. If you can’t find it, consider substituting with spinach or broccoli for a different texture and flavor. Remember to adjust the cooking time since softer vegetables like spinach will wilt more quickly.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is key for a creamy filling. You could swap it with goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer a tangy flavor. For a lighter option, use a low-fat cream cheese or replace half with Greek yogurt.
Cheeses: I love the blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you’re out of one, try cheddar or a cheese blend. Just keep in mind that different cheese types can change the flavor and melty texture of the filling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives that punchy flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you could use garlic powder—about a teaspoon should do the trick. Though fresh is always best, powdered will work in a pinch!
How Can I Effectively Stuff the Chicken Without It Falling Apart?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky, but with some careful preparation, you can do it successfully. First, you’ll want to make a pocket in each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. This ensures you have enough space for the filling but keeps it secure.
- Use a sharp knife to make a horizontal slice, creating a pocket.
- When stuffing, don’t overfill! A generous spoonful is usually enough, allowing room for the filling to expand.
- Use toothpicks to secure the openings if necessary, but be cautious when removing them after cooking.
This method keeps everything intact while cooking, helping the chicken stay juicy and flavorful!
How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed (about 10-12 spears)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Optional: Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook (including baking). In total, you should set aside about 45 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your chicken once it’s stuffed and seared.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and make a pocket by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to keep it intact, just big enough to fill it with the cheese mixture.
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Using a spoon, fill each chicken pocket with the cheese mixture. Next, add a few asparagus spears inside each one. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the stuffing from spilling out.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This adds flavor and a nice color!
6. Bake the Chicken:
After browning, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step ensures a juicy, tender chicken!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you like, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of flavor before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Asparagus Stuffed Chicken! It’s a great dish to impress your friends and family!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, feta, or goat cheese. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may change slightly, so choose according to your taste preferences!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before searing and baking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but a conventional oven will help maintain the texture better!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for quicker thawing. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cutting and stuffing!
