This Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast is a tasty treat that’s both easy and quick to make! It features juicy chicken filled with creamy cheese and fresh veggies. Yum!
I love how the air fryer makes the chicken so tender without all that oil. Plus, it’s less mess—just pop it in and let it do its thing! Who can say no to that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Look for large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing. If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs instead. They add a different flavor and stay juicy!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess water before mixing.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture, but you can substitute it with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Both add a nice tanginess to the stuffing.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: While sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, consider using chopped roasted red peppers if you can’t find them. They’ll bring a subtle sweetness.
Bacon: If you want to make this recipe vegetarian, simply skip the bacon or opt for a plant-based bacon substitute. It will still taste delicious without it!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Breasts Cook Evenly?
Cooking chicken breasts in the air fryer can be tricky, but here are some tips to make sure they turn out perfect every time.
- Slice a neat pocket in the chicken without cutting all the way through to help keep the stuffing in.
- Ensure that the stuffing is packed nicely but not overflowing, or it might spill out during cooking.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching, which allows for even heat distribution.
- Flipping halfway through cooking helps achieve a golden brown color and ensures even cooking.
Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer! Aim for 165°F (75°C) for juicy and safe chicken.
How to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to get this delicious meal on your table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepaing the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important as it helps to cook the chicken evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. Make the Stuffing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled bacon (if you’re using it). Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nicely blended and creamy. This will be the delicious filling for your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and carefully slice a pocket into them. Make sure not to cut all the way through, as you want to create a pouch to hold the stuffing. Be gentle; the chicken is delicate!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to fill the chicken! Spoon the stuffing mixture into each chicken breast pocket, pressing it in gently. If the filling is spilling out, you can use toothpicks to secure the opening. This will keep all the yummy goodness inside while it cooks.
5. Season the Chicken:
Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Sprinkle some extra salt, pepper, and paprika on top for more flavor. This will help the chicken to crisp up nicely as it cooks.
6. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not crowding each other for even cooking! Cook them for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is nice and golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This makes it juicier and easier to slice. After resting, slice the chicken and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious stuffed chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them first. The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour. Ensure they are patted dry before slicing to prevent excess moisture in the air fryer.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or cottage cheese blended until smooth. Alternatively, a dairy-free option like cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese can work. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or air fryer until warmed through. If using the air fryer, preheat it to around 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, to keep it juicy.
Can I Make the Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to assemble the chicken right before cooking for the best texture and flavor. If the stuffing is too cold when you stuff the chicken, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before using.
