Asparagus Stuffed Chicken

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a well-prepared chicken dish, especially one that combines vibrant vegetables with rich flavors. Recently, I experimented with an Asparagus Stuffed Chicken recipe, and it was an instant hit at our dinner table. The juicy chicken rolled around tender asparagus and creamy provolone cheese created a delightful taste experience. My family loved how the rich cream cheese sauce complemented the dish perfectly, and the bright green asparagus added a lovely crunch. It’s a meal that’s not only visually appealing but also surprisingly easy to make, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 6 (5-6 ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ¼-inch thickness, seasoned with salt and pepper
• 6 provolone cheese slices
• 24 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
• Toothpicks
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1 packet Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray the foil with no-stick cooking spray. This step will make cleanup a breeze!

Prepare Chicken

Place a slice of provolone cheese on each pounded chicken breast. On top of the cheese, layer 4 asparagus spears. Carefully roll up the chicken from one end to the other, securing it with toothpicks to hold everything together. Place the rolled chicken on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side up.

Bake Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer. This ensures that the chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy.

Make the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the cream cheese on HIGH for 1 minute to soften it. Whisk in the milk and Artichoke & Spinach Warm Dip Mix; continue microwaving for an additional 30 seconds. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and microwave for another minute, or until the sauce is heated through and smooth.

Serve

Once the chicken is done baking, serve it drizzled with the prepared sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 47g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating: Place the stuffed chicken on a serving plate.
• Drizzle: Generously drizzle the cream cheese sauce over the chicken.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch.
• Sides: Serve with your favorite sides such as:
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables
• Rice pilaf

Additional Tips

1. Chicken Thickness: Ensure that the chicken is pounded evenly to allow for even cooking.
2. Asparagus: Choose thin, tender asparagus spears for the best texture.
3. Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or gouda would work well too.
4. Sauce Variations: Add a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper to the cream cheese sauce for a bit of heat.
5. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian dish.
• Different Greens: You can also use spinach or broccoli instead of asparagus.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cream cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing contrast.
• A side of garlic bread can make for a delicious accompaniment, soaking up the extra sauce.
• Consider serving a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Prepare the chicken rolls, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

1. What if I don’t have Artichoke & Spinach Dip Mix?

• You can make a simple mix by combining cream cheese with chopped spinach, artichokes, and seasoning to taste.

1. Can I grill the stuffed chicken instead of baking?

• Absolutely! Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it’s cooked through.

1. How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check.

1. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

• Yes! You can prepare and bake the chicken ahead of time and reheat it for easy meal prep.

1. Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing?

• Yes, feel free to add roasted red peppers, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

1. What can I serve with the chicken?

• This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

• You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.

1. How long does the sauce last in the fridge?

• The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

Asparagus Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that not only impresses with its presentation but also delivers on flavor. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate vegetables into your main course while keeping it simple and quick to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures, and don’t be surprised if your family asks for seconds!

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