Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe – A Healthy, Cheesy, and Delicious Dinner
When it comes to making a dish that is both healthy and indulgent, asparagus stuffed chicken breast takes the crown. Juicy chicken breasts are sliced open and filled with fresh asparagus spears and gooey melted cheese, then seared and baked to perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that looks fancy enough to serve at a dinner party, yet it’s so simple that you can easily make it on a busy weeknight.
This recipe is low in carbs, keto-friendly, high in protein, and packed with nutrients from the asparagus. Plus, it’s versatile: you can play with the seasonings, swap out the vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that is wholesome, tasty, and eye-catching on the dinner table, this stuffed chicken breast is the answer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy but delicious – With lean protein from chicken and vitamins from asparagus, this is a guilt-free comfort meal.
- Keto and low-carb friendly – Perfect for those following special diets, without sacrificing taste.
- Impressive presentation – Looks like a gourmet meal straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
- Customizable – You can change the filling and seasonings to match your taste preferences.
- Great for meal prep – These chicken breasts can be cooked ahead and reheated without losing flavor or texture.
Ingredients
To make 4 servings, you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (medium to large size)
- 12 asparagus spears, trimmed (about 3 per chicken breast)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (or use provolone, cheddar, or Swiss)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (adds color and mild smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: toothpicks to help secure the chicken after stuffing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Place them on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep slit lengthwise in each breast to create a pocket (be careful not to cut all the way through).
- Season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Place 3 trimmed asparagus spears inside each chicken pocket.
- Add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the asparagus.
- Gently fold the chicken over the filling.
- Use toothpicks if needed to keep the filling from falling out.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the skillet (or place chicken on a baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success
- Choose thicker chicken breasts for easier stuffing.
- Don’t overstuff with cheese – some melting out is normal, but too much will overflow.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, just transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing.
- Resting the chicken after baking ensures the juices stay inside.
Variations
- Cheese swaps: Try provolone, cheddar, Swiss, feta, or even cream cheese for different flavors.
- Veggie swaps: Spinach, zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes all make great alternatives to asparagus.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning to the spice mix.
- Low-fat version: Use light mozzarella or reduce the amount of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus stuffed chicken breast is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes
- Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (for low-carb)
- A crisp garden salad or roasted veggies
- A drizzle of light lemon butter sauce or balsamic glaze
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each cooked chicken breast tightly in foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting too deep: If you slice through the chicken, the filling will fall out.
- Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken.
- Skipping the sear: Searing locks in flavor and gives a golden crust.
- Too much filling: Keep it balanced to prevent leakage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw it first and pat dry to avoid extra moisture inside the chicken.
Q: What other cheeses work well?
Provolone, Swiss, or even cream cheese mixed with herbs work beautifully.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes! Grill over medium heat, covered, for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
This makes it an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet.
Final Thoughts
Asparagus stuffed chicken breast is one of those recipes that proves healthy food can still be indulgent and satisfying. With its golden-brown seared exterior, tender and juicy inside, and cheesy vegetable-filled center, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a dinner party with friends, this recipe never disappoints. The best part is how adaptable it is—you can play with the fillings and seasonings to create endless variations while keeping the process simple.
Try this recipe once, and it might just become your new go-to way to cook chicken.