ASPARAGUS STUFFED CHICKEN BREASTS

Juicy, flavorful, easy to prepare chicken is wondrous! Chicken breasts can dry out easily so when I find a recipe that results in perfect chicken, it brings me joy. This recipe has earned its spot as one of my favorite chicken dishes and I make it for the family and when we have dinner guests. The presentation alone is beautiful – the flavor makes the chicken the pièce de résistance. I have only received compliments on this dish!

I love how all the flavors come together beautifully. The recipe looks a bit tedious but, in actuality, it is quite easy. If you have everything prepped for each stage, preparing the chicken breasts is easy. Check the Notes section for some helpful information!

I like to serve this with roasted vegetables, sautéed zucchini, roasted butternut and acorn squash, or risotto. There are so many sides that will complement this dish perfectly!

INGREDIENTS:

4 Boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 Tbsp. Olive oil

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 tsp. Garlic powder

1 tsp. Paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

12 Asparagus spears with the woody bottoms removed

Chopped tomatoes

4 Slices mozzarella cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika and salt and pepper to taste.

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.

Slice pockets into the side of each chicken breast so that they can be stuffed.

Place a slice of cheese, some chopped tomatoes and 3 spears of asparagus into the center of each chicken breast.

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat on the stove.

Sear both sides of the chicken breasts and transfer them to a baking sheet.

Bake the chicken for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.