Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious? Imagine succulent chicken breasts stuffed with creamy garlic-infused goodness and tender asparagus, all wrapped in crispy prosciutto. This Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe! With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 40 minutes, you can whip up this Italian-inspired delight any night of the week. Get ready to impress with a dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 asparagus spears
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish.
- Prepare the asparagus by trimming the woody ends. Blanch the asparagus spears in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by carefully slicing horizontally, creating a pocket without cutting completely through. Open the chicken breast like a book.
- Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture inside each chicken breast pocket.
- Place 2 blanched asparagus spears inside each chicken breast, ensuring they are centered.
- Carefully close the chicken breast, pressing the edges to seal in the asparagus and cream cheese.
- Season the outside of each chicken breast with additional salt and pepper.
- Wrap each stuffed chicken breast completely with 2 slices of prosciutto, ensuring full coverage.
- Place the wrapped chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the prosciutto is slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice and serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, select high-quality prosciutto and fresh asparagus. The quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in the final dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Asparagus: Blanching the asparagus for just 2 minutes keeps it tender yet crisp. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps maintain the vibrant green color.
- Seal the Chicken Well: Make sure to press the edges of the chicken breast firmly after stuffing to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for juicy chicken, as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 130mg
