If you’re on the lookout for a delicious keto dinner idea that’s easy to prepare, filling, and packed with flavor, look no further than this Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe! Perfectly suitable for those following a ketogenic lifestyle, this dish offers a fantastic combination of juicy chicken, scrumptious mozzarella, and vibrant asparagus. The beauty of stuffed chicken breasts lies in their versatility and ease of preparation, making them an excellent option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
This irresistible keto-friendly recipe focuses on bold flavors and healthy ingredients, ensuring you stay on track with your low-carb diet while enjoying a hearty meal. As you slice into these buttery chicken breasts, you’ll discover the melting cheese and tender asparagus, all creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s not just a meal; it’s a dining experience!
With the simplicity of preparation and the ability to customize ingredients as per your preference, this Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe stands out as not only a top choice for a weeknight dinner but also makes for excellent options for family meals and health-conscious gatherings. Whether you’re looking to cut carbs or simply enjoy a delicious one-pan dinner, this dish is certainly worth trying!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The mozzarella and asparagus create a delicious filling that elevates the taste of traditional chicken dishes.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Cook once and enjoy throughout the week without compromising on flavor.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Easily swap out ingredients to cater to your tastes or dietary preferences.
- Great for the Keto Diet: The recipe is low in carbs and rich in protein, ideal for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your delicious stuffed chicken breast, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to ensure everything is set for perfect cooking results later on.
You’ll need a sharp knife for butterflying the chicken breasts, a large cutting board for safe handling, and a mixing bowl for combining the seasoning and fills. It’s also a good idea to have a meat thermometer handy to check for doneness, ensuring your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
For cooking, a large skillet will be needed to sear the chicken before transferring it to the oven. This method locks in the juices for a tender, flavor-packed meal. Keeping toothpicks or kitchen twine on hand will also help secure the chicken after stuffing. A clean work area will make your preparation smooth and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts, butterflied
- 8 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (or provolone for a sharper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh parsley, diced (for garnish)
- Toothpicks for sealing chicken breasts
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly once placed in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take the butterflied chicken breasts and season them generously with Himalayan salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika. You can add the minced garlic and rub everything thoroughly to coat the chicken in the delicious spices. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken, preparing it for the delightful stuffing.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Position four asparagus spears along with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast. Be mindful not to overfill them, as this makes sealing challenging. Carefully fold the chicken breasts over the filling.
Step 4: Secure the Filling
Sealing your stuffed chicken is crucial to keep the filling inside while cooking. Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts firmly. Make sure to insert the toothpicks at an angle to prevent them from coming out during cooking.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan. Sear them for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the chicken, giving it a beautiful crust.
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Once seared, use tongs to carefully transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for at least 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps in achieving the perfect doneness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After removing the chicken from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making the chicken tender and moist. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor before serving warm to your guests.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with pork chops or turkey cutlets for a different take on this dish.
- Vegetables: Swap out asparagus for broccoli or spinach for an equally nutritious filling.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning or Cajun spices for unique flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to butterfly the chicken breasts evenly for thorough cooking.
- Allow the chicken to rest after baking for juicier results.
- Feel free to use any cooked vegetables you have on hand as stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
- Add roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for a wholesome side.
Tips
- Utilize a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection, avoiding under or overcooking.
- Prepare these chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick weeknight dinners.
- For an extra touch, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 48g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?
Yes, stuffed chicken breasts can be frozen before or after cooking. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
A meat thermometer is your best tool! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, gouda, or even vegan cheese works well in this recipe based on your preference.
What can I serve with stuffed chicken?
Pair your stuffed chicken with steamed vegetables, salads, or a light sauce for a complete meal.
Conclusion
In summary, this Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe is not just another dinner idea; it’s a delightful experience for anyone aiming for a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing taste. The juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and tender asparagus create a perfect symphony of flavors, making it a dish worth repeating. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, planning a family dinner, or just craving a delicious keto meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Don’t hesitate to try it out yourself, and feel free to experiment with variations to make it truly your own. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—happy cooking!
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Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This irresistible keto-friendly recipe focuses on bold flavors and healthy ingredients, ensuring you stay on track with your low-carb diet while enjoying a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts, butterflied
- 8 asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (or provolone for a sharper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh parsley, diced (for garnish)
- Toothpicks for sealing chicken breasts
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly once placed in the oven.
- Prepare the Chicken: Next, take the butterflied chicken breasts and season them generously with Himalayan salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika. You can add the minced garlic and rub everything thoroughly to coat the chicken in the delicious spices. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken, preparing it for the delightful stuffing.
- Stuff the Chicken Breasts: Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Position four asparagus spears along with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast. Be mindful not to overfill them, as this makes sealing challenging. Carefully fold the chicken breasts over the filling.
- Secure the Filling: Sealing your stuffed chicken is crucial to keep the filling inside while cooking. Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts firmly. Make sure to insert the toothpicks at an angle to prevent them from coming out during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan. Sear them for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the chicken, giving it a beautiful crust.
- Transfer and Bake: Once seared, use tongs to carefully transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for at least 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps in achieving the perfect doneness.
- Garnish and Serve: After removing the chicken from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making the chicken tender and moist. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor before serving warm to your guests.
Notes
Make sure to butterfly the chicken breasts evenly for thorough cooking. Allow the chicken to rest after baking for juicier results. Feel free to use any cooked vegetables you have on hand as stuffing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 48 g