If you are craving a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe is precisely what you need. This vibrant recipe brings together tender chicken breasts stuffed with crisp asparagus and melty mozzarella, all perfectly balanced by a zesty honey lime marinade. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor — from the subtle smokiness of paprika to the bright tang of fresh lime juice. It’s a meal that looks impressive but comes together with surprisingly straightforward ingredients and simple techniques, making it a go-to for any weeknight or special occasion dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing unique textures and flavors that make this dish unforgettable. Fresh asparagus adds vibrant green crunch, mozzarella lends creamy richness, and the honey lime marinade ties everything together with a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy notes.
- Chicken breast: Use small or large boneless, skinless breasts that you can create pockets with for stuffing.
- Butter: Essential for searing to get that golden-brown crust and added richness in flavor.
- Asparagus: Choose medium-sized, fresh stalks for the ideal tender crunch inside the chicken pockets.
- Olive oil: Used both for coating asparagus and marinating, it adds a fruity, smooth base flavor.
- Lime slices: For garnish, bringing fresh aroma and a pop of color to the dish.
- Cilantro: Bright and herbaceous garnish that complements the lime and enhances the dish.
- Vegetable oil: For cooking, with a high smoke point ideal for searing the chicken.
- Mozzarella cheese: Sliced fresh mozzarella melts beautifully inside the chicken for creamy, satisfying bites.
- Fresh lime juice: The star of the marinade that brightens and balances the honey’s sweetness.
- Salt: To taste, enhances all the flavors while seasoning the chicken and asparagus.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy note and depth to the marinade.
- Honey (or maple syrup): Provides natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with citrus and paprika.
- Paprika: Brings a smoky, warm undertone that adds complexity without overpowering.
- Dried Italian herbs: A fragrant blend that ties the marinade’s flavors together.
- Garlic powder: For an additional savory boost in the seasoning mix.
- Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by washing and patting dry your chicken breasts—this helps the marinade stick better. Carefully slice each breast lengthwise to create a pocket, being cautious not to cut all the way through. These pockets will be your little vessels to hold the vibrant asparagus and gooey mozzarella later on.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
The magic in this recipe begins with the marinade. Whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to create a bright and flavorful marinade. Pour this over the chicken breasts tightly sealed in a plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours. If you can marinade overnight, that’s even better—the flavors will infuse deeply, guaranteeing a juicy, tasty chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Asparagus
While the chicken marinates, trim your asparagus and toss them gently with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple step enhances their natural flavor and ensures they remain tender yet crisp after baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Chicken
Take the marinated breasts out and lay them flat on a surface. Open each pocket and insert three asparagus spears along with 2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella. Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside during cooking. Top each with a lime slice for added infusion of flavor during baking.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds a wonderfully rich flavor to complement the tangy marinade.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking sheet, placing lime slices over each breast. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked chicken. The mozzarella should be melty, and the asparagus tender-crisp.
How to Serve Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing takes this dish from beautiful to spectacular. Fresh cilantro scattered on top complements the lime, offering a refreshing herbaceous finish. Additional lime slices served on the side allow your guests to add more citrus brightness if desired.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides that echo its freshness. Try a cabbage and cucumber salad for a cool, crunchy contrast, or a simple quinoa or wild rice pilaf to soak up the honey lime sauce. Roasted baby potatoes would add warmth and heartiness without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, slice the stuffed chicken breasts crosswise to reveal the vibrant green asparagus and creamy mozzarella layers inside. Arrange slices fanned out on individual plates or a large serving platter with additional lime wedges and fresh herbs sprinkled on top. This presentation makes it perfect for dinner parties or family celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool completely before storing to maintain moisture without sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked stuffed chicken breasts by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will retain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the chicken and cause mozzarella to become rubbery. A gentle oven reheating helps maintain that tender, juicy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Fresh asparagus is best for this recipe because it retains its crisp texture when baked inside the chicken. Frozen asparagus tends to release water and may become mushy, which can affect the final dish’s texture.
Is it okay to prepare this dish without mozzarella cheese?
While mozzarella adds wonderful creaminess and balances the flavors well, if you prefer, feel free to substitute with another melty cheese like Monterey Jack or provolone. Just keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly.
What if I don’t have fresh lime juice for the marinade?
Fresh lime juice is key for its bright, natural acidity, but in a pinch, you can use fresh lemon juice as a substitute. Avoid bottled juices as they often have added sugars and preservatives that could change the flavor balance.
Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate way is using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The chicken should appear opaque and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorites to prepare and share. It’s a wonderful balance of fresh and comforting flavors wrapped in a beautiful, easy-to-make presentation. Whether for a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe shines with its thoughtful simplicity and delicious flair. I can’t wait for you to taste the juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, and honey-kissed lime magic all in one bite!
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Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
Description
This Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast with Honey Lime is a delicious and elegant dish featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with fresh asparagus and melted mozzarella cheese, marinated in a flavorful honey lime mixture, seared to a golden brown, and finished in the oven for a perfectly cooked, juicy meal. Garnished with lime slices and fresh cilantro, it’s ideal for a wholesome dinner that impresses.
Ingredients
Chicken and Stuffing
- 4 small or 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 medium-sized asparagus spears, trimmed
- 27–28 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (about 2–3 slices per breast)
Marinade
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 ½ tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
For Asparagus
- ½ – 1 tbsp olive oil (for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking and Garnish
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- Lime slices (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Wash and pat dry the chicken breasts with a towel. Place them on a clean chopping board.
- Create Pockets: Using a sharp knife, cut each chicken breast lengthwise to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. Place the sliced breasts into a plastic zip-top bag.
- Make Marinade and Marinate: In a small bowl, whisk together the butter, olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts in the bag, seal, and ensure all pieces are well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, preferably overnight, turning the bag occasionally.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.
- Prepare Asparagus: Trim the asparagus spears and drizzle with ½ – 1 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff Chicken: Remove chicken breasts from the marinade and lay flat. Open the pocket and stuff with 3 asparagus spears and 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese. Secure with 2-3 toothpicks. Place a lime slice on top and set aside.
- Sear Chicken: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking sheet, arranging additional lime slices on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove toothpicks carefully. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime slices. Serve immediately, ideally with a side of cabbage and cucumber salad.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and juiciness of the chicken.
- Ensure not to pierce through the chicken when making pockets to keep the stuffing inside.
- Searing the chicken before baking creates a beautiful golden crust and helps seal in moisture.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting results and creaminess inside the chicken.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and honey levels based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
