Stuffed chicken breasts are a delightful way to elevate a simple piece of chicken into a flavorful and impressive dish. Cooking them in an air fryer not only makes the process quicker but also ensures juicy meat and a perfectly crisp exterior. Below, we’ll explore a step-by-step recipe and tips to perfect these stuffed chicken breasts at home.
1. How To Cook Stuffed Chicken Breasts in Air Fryer
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Filling
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, if frozen, thaw and drain well)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breast
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be cautious not to cut all the way through.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breast
Spoon the filling evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Use toothpicks to seal the edges if needed, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they’re not touching to allow proper air circulation.
Cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips For Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Use Uniform Chicken Breasts
Selecting chicken breasts of similar size ensures even cooking. Uneven pieces may result in overcooked or undercooked portions.
Don’t Overfill the Chicken
Overstuffing can cause the filling to ooze out during cooking. Adding just the right amount of filling keeps the chicken intact and prevents a mess in the air fryer.
Secure the Edges
Using toothpicks to seal the pocket prevents the filling from escaping while cooking. Make sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
Preheat the Air Fryer
A preheated air fryer ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Check Internal Temperature
Using a meat thermometer is crucial to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without being dry. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Leaving space between the chicken breasts allows hot air to circulate evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked dish.
3. What to Serve with Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Steamed Vegetables
A side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans adds color and nutrients to your plate. The light and fresh flavor of the vegetables balances the richness of the stuffed chicken.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with stuffed chicken. The smooth texture complements the crispy chicken exterior and creamy filling.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and tangy dressing is a refreshing side dish. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the chicken’s filling.
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf, seasoned with herbs and spices, provides a neutral yet flavorful base to soak up any juices from the chicken. Its light texture pairs well with the dish.
Garlic Bread
Adding garlic bread to your meal is a great way to enhance the flavors. The crispy, buttery bread complements the creamy filling and adds another texture to the plate.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the savory stuffed chicken, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Cooking stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer is an easy way to create a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. Follow the intructions in this article for a foolproof result, and serve with complementary sides for a satisfying and impressive meal.
