Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe
Introduction
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a flavorful and simple way to enjoy tender chicken packed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling. This quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want something special without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 (8-ounce/225g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1½ teaspoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened, 56g)
- ¾ cup fresh spinach (finely chopped, 24g)
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons diced tomato
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, chopped spinach, grated parmesan, diced tomato, minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon salt until well combined to make the filling.
- Step 2: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully cut a pocket into the fattest long side of each breast, creating a cavity for the filling.
- Step 3: Stuff each chicken pocket with the prepared filling and secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Step 4: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 6: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Cook for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes after cooking, then carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or basil to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use mozzarella or feta cheese instead of parmesan for a different taste.
- For a crispier exterior, sprinkle a little smoked paprika on the chicken before cooking.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through, to maintain the crisp exterior.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the chicken breasts and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the stuffed chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
PrintAir Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe
This Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe features juicy boneless chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, fresh spinach, parmesan, and tomatoes. Seasoned with garlic, paprika, and black pepper, these stuffed chicken breasts are cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a healthy, flavorful, and hassle-free meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 (8-ounce/225g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1½ teaspoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Filling:
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened, 56g)
- ¾ cup fresh spinach (finely chopped, 24g)
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons diced tomato
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped fresh spinach, grated parmesan, diced tomato, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well blended to create the filling.
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest long side of each breast, forming a cavity for the filling.
- Stuff the chicken breasts: Spoon the prepared filling evenly into each chicken breast pocket. Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure optimal cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch for even cooking. Air fry for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for 3 minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving to enjoy the perfectly cooked stuffing and juicy chicken.
Notes
- Make sure not to overfill the chicken breasts to avoid the filling spilling out during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.
- Variations: You can substitute spinach with kale or add mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.
- To keep the chicken breasts intact, secure the pocket openings tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Keywords: air fryer stuffed chicken breasts, stuffed chicken recipe, healthy chicken breast recipe, spinach cream cheese stuffed chicken, quick air fryer meals
