Asparagus Stuffed Chicken

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Are you searching for a dish that will wow your guests without having to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this delightful Asparagus Stuffed Chicken recipe. It’s an impressive meal that combines the elegance of a fine dining experience with the comfort of home cooking. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with tender asparagus and creamy provolone cheese, creating a flavorful blend that will have everyone asking for seconds. Finish it off with a sprinkle of parsley, and you have a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe may sound sophisticated, but it’s wonderfully simple to prepare. The lemon zest inside the split chicken breast adds a refreshing twist that makes the meal truly memorable. It’s perfect for dinner parties or just a cozy night in, offering a gourmet experience without the fuss.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Meat mallet
• Resealable freezer bag
• String or toothpicks

Ingredients

• 2-4 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 2-4 slices Swiss or Mozzarella cheese
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• Onion powder (to taste)
• Paprika (to taste)
• Italian seasoning (to taste)
• Salt and black pepper
• 8 asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Place a chicken breast between a resealable freezer bag on your countertop. Firmly pound the chicken with the smooth side of a meat mallet until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Season each side of the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay 4 asparagus spears down the center of each chicken breast, then add a slice of cheese on top.
5. Roll the chicken around the asparagus and cheese to form a roll. Secure the rolls with string or toothpicks.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, and sprinkle each with about 2 tablespoons of bread crumbs, if using.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the juices run clear when pricked with a fork.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness so they cook uniformly. Don’t skip the step of pounding the chicken; it makes a significant difference in the texture and tenderness of the final dish.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a unique flavor twist. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest inside the chicken roll for extra zing.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen asparagus? Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s elegant, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with!

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