Description
Succulent chicken breasts embrace delicate asparagus in this elegant Mediterranean-inspired main course. Herb-infused and perfectly roasted, this dish delivers robust flavors and sophisticated culinary charm that will delight your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 12 asparagus stalks (ends trimmed)
- 1 ounce (28 grams) sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Seasonings and Oils:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace by gathering all necessary utensils and preheating the oven to a precise 400°F (200°C), creating an ideal cooking environment.
- Season chicken breasts generously with a harmonious blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage on both sides.
- With precision, create a discreet pocket along the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to slice completely through the meat, which will serve as a container for the delectable filling.
- Craft elegant mozzarella rolls by laying out cheese slices and carefully positioning asparagus stalks and sun-dried tomatoes in the center, then gently wrapping to form compact, flavorful bundles.
- Delicately insert the prepared mozzarella bundles into the chicken breast pockets, using toothpicks to secure the edges and prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
- Ignite a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, introducing a drizzle of olive oil to create a golden searing surface for the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side, developing a rich, caramelized exterior that seals in the moisture and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Transition the skillet directly into the preheated oven, allowing the chicken to roast for 15-20 minutes until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest briefly, carefully extracting the toothpicks before serving.
- Present the stuffed chicken breasts on a warm plate, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs, and accompany with complementary sides like fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- Prep like a pro by creating neat pockets in chicken breasts without slicing completely through, ensuring a perfect stuffing cavity.
- Choose fresh, crisp asparagus stalks and high-quality mozzarella for maximum flavor and texture in this elegant dish.
- Secure stuffed chicken breasts with toothpicks to prevent delicious filling from escaping during searing and baking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transition from stovetop searing to oven finishing, creating a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Check internal chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and juicy results every single time.
- Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs and serving alongside complementary side dishes like creamy risotto or zesty salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg