Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast is a gourmet dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, keto-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese creates a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix
• 12 asparagus spears, trimmed
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with some olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make a pocket in each breast by slicing along one side. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
   • Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning mix.
3. Stuff the Chicken:
   • Stuff each chicken breast with 3 asparagus spears, a few pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, and a quarter of the mozzarella cheese. Use toothpicks to secure the pockets if necessary.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
   • If your skillet is not oven-proof, transfer the chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake:
   • Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove any toothpicks you may have used.
   • Serve the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast hot, garnished with additional chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is used here for its excellent melting qualities, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or goat cheese for different flavors.
• Side Dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, cauliflower mash, or roasted vegetables for a complete, keto-friendly meal.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast, a dish that’s sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and burst of flavors, making it ideal for a special dinner or a healthy weeknight meal.