Easy & Delicious Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken: Your New Favorite Dinner Recipe
Welcome to the world of effortless gourmet cooking with our incredible Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken recipe! This dish is the epitome of comfort food meets modern convenience, blending tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy, and flavorful filling, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Whether you’re in search of a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful culinary experience with minimal fuss.
Not only is this Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken incredibly satisfying, but it’s also a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle. This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and completely gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. The luscious cream cheese mixture, combined with aromatic basil pesto, creates a truly irresistible filling. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and herbaceous notes, making it a delicious chicken recipe that the entire family will undoubtedly adore. It’s a simple chicken roll-up that tastes anything but simple!
Why the Air Fryer is Perfect for Stuffed Chicken Breasts
The air fryer truly shines when it comes to cooking stuffed chicken breasts. Its circulating hot air cooks the chicken evenly and quickly, achieving a beautifully golden-brown and slightly crispy exterior while locking in the moisture inside. This means no more dry chicken! The air fryer’s efficiency makes it an ideal appliance for preparing this kind of dish, ensuring a tender, juicy result every single time. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-frying and often faster than conventional oven baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Moreover, using an air fryer for this recipe simplifies cleanup and requires minimal oil, contributing to a healthier meal. The even heat distribution ensures that the filling gets warm and gooey without overcooking the delicate chicken. This cooking method elevates a simple chicken breast into a gourmet experience that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to master.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
This air fryer stuffed chicken recipe calls for a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. We’ve chosen components that are readily available and complement each other beautifully, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
Ingredients List
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of our dish. Opt for fresh, evenly sized breasts for best results.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to ensure a smooth, easily mixable, and wonderfully creamy filling. It provides a delightful tang and richness.
- Basil Pesto Sauce: A vibrant, aromatic addition that infuses the filling with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
- Olive Oil: Used to brush the chicken, helping achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and ensuring seasonings stick.
- Garlic Powder: A staple seasoning that enhances the savory profile of the chicken and the filling.
- Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken to taste, bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Parsley Flakes: An optional garnish that adds a touch of fresh color and subtle herbaceous flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
Creating this impressive dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear, detailed instructions to ensure your Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken turns out perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by butterflying each boneless, skinless chicken breast. To do this, place the chicken flat on a cutting board. Hold your knife parallel to the board and carefully slice the chicken horizontally, almost all the way through, leaving about a half-inch hinge on one side. This will allow the breast to open up like a book, creating a larger surface for pounding and stuffing.
-
Flatten the Breasts: Place each butterflied chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a large, unsealed Ziploc freezer bag. Using a meat mallet, gently but firmly pound the chicken until it is uniformly thin, about ¼ inch thick. This step is crucial for even cooking and making the chicken easier to roll or fold without tearing.
- Prepare for Stuffing: Once the chicken breasts are evenly flattened, carefully remove them from the plastic wrap or bag. Lay each piece flat on your cutting board, ready for the delicious filling.
-
Mix the Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the basil pesto sauce. Stir well with a spoon or spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and evenly combined. This creates a wonderfully creamy and flavorful stuffing.
-
Stuff and Secure: Divide the cream cheese and pesto mixture evenly between the flattened chicken breasts. Place the filling directly in the middle of each chicken piece. Carefully fold the edges of the chicken over the filling, creating a neat, sealed package. Secure the ends with one or two toothpicks to ensure the filling stays inside during the cooking process.
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Season and Air Fryer Prep: Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate properly for even cooking. Brush the tops of the chicken with a thin layer of olive oil, then generously sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper, and parsley flakes.
- Air Fry Until Cooked: Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F (195 degrees C). Air fry the stuffed chicken breasts for 13-18 minutes. Cooking times can vary based on your specific air fryer model and the thickness of your chicken. Cook until the chicken is beautifully golden brown on the outside and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the filling) registers an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Stuffed Chicken
This air fryer stuffed chicken recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to easily switch up the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours!
Add a Different Filling for Different Flavors
If basil pesto isn’t your favorite, or if you simply want to try something new, the filling can be easily customized. Instead of ¼ cup of basil pesto, consider incorporating other flavorful components into your softened cream cheese. Sun-dried tomato pesto offers a rich, sweet, and tangy alternative. For a heartier twist, mix in finely chopped cooked spinach, artichoke hearts, or even a blend of finely diced cooked vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Cooked crumbled sausage or bacon bits can also add a delightful savory depth, transforming the dish entirely.
Experiment with Different Cheeses
While cream cheese forms the base of our stuffing, adding other cheeses can elevate the flavor and texture significantly. Grated Parmesan cheese can be mixed into the cream cheese filling for a sharper, saltier kick, or sprinkled on top of the chicken before air frying for a crispy, golden crust. Tangy goat cheese, salty crumbled feta cheese, or even shredded mozzarella cheese will bring distinct flavors and melting characteristics. For a truly indulgent experience, tuck a thin slice of cheddar, provolone, or Swiss cheese inside the chicken along with the cream cheese mixture.
Spice Up Your Seasoning Blend
The exterior seasoning is just as important as the interior filling. While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are fantastic basics, feel free to explore other spice blends. A dash of onion powder can add a subtle sweetness and depth. For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will wake up your taste buds. Smoked paprika lends a beautiful reddish hue and a rich, smoky aroma, while Italian seasoning or a mixed herb blend (like rosemary and thyme) can provide an aromatic, earthy dimension. Always adjust to your preferred level of spice and flavor intensity!
Incorporate Fresh Vegetables
Adding vegetables is a wonderful way to boost the nutritional content and add fresh textures to your stuffed chicken. Finely chopped fresh spinach can be easily folded into the cream cheese mixture, wilting down beautifully as it cooks. Diced bell peppers of any color, thinly sliced mushrooms, or even a few cherry tomato halves can be tucked into the filling for bursts of flavor and color. This is also an excellent method for discreetly adding more greens and other healthy ingredients, even for the pickiest eaters, who might be too distracted by the creamy cheese to notice!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions that will help you achieve perfection with your Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken:
Absolutely! With its wholesome, basic ingredients, this simple chicken roll is inherently low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. This is one of those fantastic air fryer recipes that everyone can savor, allowing you to enjoy a rich, flavorful meal without any dietary guilt or stress.
For the safest and most accurate results, always rely on an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken breast, making sure to avoid hitting the creamy filling. The chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
Allow any leftover cooked chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. For optimal freshness and safety, consume the leftovers within 3-4 days. You can easily reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain some crispiness, or use an oven or microwave for convenience.
Yes, absolutely! You can butterfly and flatten the chicken breasts, prepare the cream cheese and pesto filling, stuff the chicken, and secure it with toothpicks a day in advance. Store the prepared, uncooked stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply take them out, brush with olive oil, season, and proceed with air frying as directed. This makes for an incredibly efficient meal prep solution on busy days.
This recipe performs well in most basket-style or oven-style air fryers. I personally achieve great results using my Cosori Air Fryer. The most important factor is to ensure that the stuffed chicken breasts are placed in a single layer within the air fryer basket without overcrowding. This allows for optimal hot air circulation, which is key to achieving a perfectly golden and evenly cooked result. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
This savory Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken is a complete meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with the right side dishes. For a balanced and delicious plate, consider these easy accompaniments. If you’re keeping it low-carb, opt for crisp air fryer asparagus or our simple air fryer broccoli. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans also complement the rich filling beautifully. For those who aren’t concerned with carb count, fluffy rice, a side of roasted garlic potatoes, or even some savory air fryer stuffing can make for a hearty and satisfying meal. The goal is to choose sides that enhance the creamy pesto flavors without overpowering them.
Explore More Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
If you’re now a firm believer in the magic of air-fried chicken, you’re in luck! We have an abundance of other fantastic air fryer chicken recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. These recipes offer incredible flavor and convenience, transforming mundane meals into something special. Don’t forget to check out our list of favorite Air Fryer Accessories to help you get the most out of your appliance!
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Achieve incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken thighs with a crispy skin.
- Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken: A quick and easy way to enjoy a sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish.
- Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos: Crispy, savory, and perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a fun family dinner.
- Air Fryer Orange Chicken: A healthier homemade version of a takeout classic that’s bursting with citrus flavor.
- Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Breast: Simple, perfectly cooked chicken breasts, ideal for salads, sandwiches, or as a main course.
- For a super quick and easy option, try Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken, straight from the freezer!
Other Easy Air Fryer Dinner Ideas
The versatility of the air fryer extends far beyond just chicken! If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of effortless weeknight meals, these air fryer recipes are also worth exploring:
- Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers: A wholesome and colorful meal packed with flavor.
- Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Meatballs: Gooey, cheesy goodness that’s perfect with pasta or on a sub.
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs: Surprisingly easy to make and incredibly flavorful, a fun alternative to chicken.
- Air Fryer Shrimp Egg Rolls: Crispy, delicious, and a fantastic appetizer or light dinner option.
4
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Becky
10 minutes
13-18 minutes
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Equipment
-
1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
-
2
boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 6 ounces each -
4
ounces
cream cheese, softened -
¼
cup
basil pesto sauce -
1
tbsp
olive oil -
½
tsp
garlic powder -
Salt and ground black pepper, just a pinch of each, to taste -
Parsley flakes, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
To make stuffed chicken, begin by using a sharp knife to butterfly each chicken breast in half without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket.
-
Lay each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap, or in an unsealed gallon Ziploc freezer bag. Use a meat mallet and pound chicken until they are evenly flattened, about ¼ inch in thickness.
-
Next, remove from the wrap or bag used to flatten, and lay each piece flat on the cutting board, set aside.
-
In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and basil pesto sauce, until well combined and smooth.
-
Divide the mixture in half, and place in the middle of each flattened chicken breast. Then, fold chicken ends over the filling and seal with toothpicks to keep the ends of the chicken closed while cooking.
-
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer, without overlapping, into a lightly sprayed air fryer basket. Brush chicken with olive oil, and then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley flakes over the chicken.
-
Air fry at 380 degrees F (195 degrees C) for 13-18 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Ensure an instant-read thermometer shows the chicken has an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories:
320
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
3
g
,
Protein:
27
g
,
Fat:
22
g
,
Saturated Fat:
8
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
6
g
,
Trans Fat:
0.01
g
,
Cholesterol:
102
mg
,
Sodium:
365
mg
,
Potassium:
460
mg
,
Fiber:
0.3
g
,
Sugar:
2
g
,
Vitamin A:
727
IU
,
Vitamin C:
1
mg
,
Calcium:
58
mg
,
Iron:
1
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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