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When you’re craving something comforting yet fancy, Best Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast hits the spot. This dish marries tender chicken with a creamy spinach filling, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, with the air fryer doing the heavy lifting, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table—now that’s a win!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This stuffed chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and most importantly, family-approved. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknight meals when you still want something special. And what’s better? This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies.
“My kids devoured every bite! This recipe has made its way into our regular rotation!” – Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Let’s dive into the cooking process. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike. You’ll start by prepping your ingredients, then mix a delightful filling, and finally, stuff those chicken breasts to goodness. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
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What You’ll Need
Gather up these ingredients to make this delectable dish:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
If you’re short on spinach, feel free to swap it out for some kale or other greens. And if you’re not a fan of cream cheese, ricotta makes a wonderful alternative!
Directions to Follow
Here’s how to put this all together:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast and fill them with the spinach mixture.
- Spray the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking times can vary slightly based on your air fryer model, so be sure to check that magic temperature!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Wondering how to serve this stuffed chicken? It’s delicious on its own, but why not step it up a notch? Pair it with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or a creamy risotto. You could even drizzle a homemade pesto over the top for an extra burst of flavor. And don’t forget a glass of sweet tea to complete your Southern dining experience!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? No problem! Store the stuffed chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before wrapping tightly for storage.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a crispier outside, increase the cooking temperature for the last few minutes.
- Don’t rush the resting period after cooking; it allows the juices to redistribute for moist chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some diced sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. You could also experiment with different types of cheeses like pepper jack for a little kick or substitute the spinach with roasted red peppers. The possibilities are endless!
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prepare the filling and stuff the chicken.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that your seasonings and any additional sauces are gluten-free.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Make sure to check this with a meat thermometer for best results!
So, there you have it—the secrets to an easy, comforting Best Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast. Now gather your loved ones, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite together!
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Best Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful stuffed chicken breast recipe filled with creamy spinach, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast and fill them with the spinach mixture.
- Spray the outside of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a crispier outside, increase the cooking temperature for the last few minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg