Description
Succulent chicken breasts embrace fresh asparagus and melted mozzarella in this Italian-inspired sensation. Elegant flavors dance across the plate, promising a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a Mediterranean escape you’ll savor with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 skinless boneless chicken fillets (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
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 400°F (204°C), creating the ideal environment for baking the chicken to perfection.
- Arrange chicken fillets on a sanitized cutting surface, then generously coat each piece with a harmonious blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Using a sharp knife, delicately create a lengthwise pocket in each chicken fillet, taking care to maintain an intact base to hold the flavorful filling.
- Craft an elegant filling by layering a slice of mozzarella cheese, three crisp asparagus spears, and a scattering of tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Carefully roll the ingredients into a compact bundle and nestle it within the chicken’s pocket.
- Secure the pocket’s opening with a toothpick to prevent the delectable filling from escaping during cooking.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, then gently place the prepared chicken fillets into the pan, searing each side for 3-5 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust develops.
- Carefully transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven, allowing the chicken to roast for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the meat is thoroughly cooked and no longer shows any pink coloration.
Notes
- Slice chicken carefully to create pockets without cutting completely through, ensuring a perfect stuffing pocket.
- Choose fresh, crisp asparagus spears and high-quality mozzarella for maximum flavor and texture in the dish.
- Searing chicken before baking helps lock in moisture and creates a beautiful golden-brown exterior with rich caramelized flavors.
- Use toothpicks to securely close chicken pockets, preventing cheese and filling from leaking during cooking.
- Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and promote even browning during searing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg