Step 1

Preheat oven to 425ºF. Cut the chicken breasts in half, lengthwise. Create a pocket in each chicken breast, but do not cut all the way through.

Step 2

Place the chicken on your work surface. Season the inside of the chicken breasts with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Lay the mozzarella cheese and 3 asparagus pieces inside each chicken breast, and fold over, enclosing the filling.

Step 4

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 5

Then, season the outside of the chicken breasts with this spice mixture. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side, until it is golden brown.

Step 6

Place the chicken in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.