Air-Frying A Stuffed Chicken Breast: Easy, Quick, Delicious!

Yes, you can cook stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, but as a general guideline, you can cook stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-30 minutes. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. It is important to preheat the air fryer and ensure that the chicken breasts are not overcrowded in the basket to allow for even cooking and a crispy texture. You can stuff the chicken breasts with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, spinach, vegetables, or meat.

Filling options: spinach, cheese, bacon, veggies, and more

Stuffed chicken breasts are a versatile dish, and you can get creative with the fillings. Here are some ideas and options to fill your chicken breasts with:

Spinach and Cheese

A popular choice, this combination can include spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and mayonnaise. You can also add garlic, onion, and herbs like parsley or oregano for extra flavour. If you're feeling indulgent, wrap your stuffed chicken breast in bacon before cooking for an extra layer of flavour and crispness.

Veggie Options

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, portobello mushroom caps can be used as a substitute for the chicken breasts. You can also stuff your chicken with vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, or even grapes. These add a burst of flavour and a touch of sweetness to the filling.

Bacon and More

For a heartier option, add some chopped cooked bacon to your filling. You can also experiment with other meats, like ground beef or sausage, to create a heartier and more savoury dish.

Customise Your Filling

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of cheeses, herbs, and spices. You can also try adding nuts like hazelnuts or using different types of oils and seasonings to coat your chicken before air frying. Just remember not to overstuff your chicken breasts, as this can lead to a mess during cooking.

With these ideas and options, you can create delicious and nutritious stuffed chicken breasts tailored to your taste preferences.

Chicken prep: pat dry, season, and slice a pocket for filling

To prepare chicken breasts for stuffing and cooking in an air fryer, start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels or placing them on a paper towel-lined dish. Make sure to remove all moisture from the chicken.

Next, you'll want to season the chicken. You can use salt on its own, or a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Season the entire inside and outside of the chicken breasts for maximum flavor and juiciness. You can also add black pepper and sprinkle the chicken with seasoning after rubbing it with oil.

Finally, create a pocket in the chicken breast for the filling. Place the chicken breast on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of the chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through the breast. The pocket should be deep and wide enough to hold the filling without falling out during cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken breasts.

Filling prep: mix ingredients, then stuff into chicken pockets

To make a delicious stuffed chicken breast in an air fryer, you'll need to prepare the filling by mixing together a variety of ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a mouth-watering meal:

Filling prep:

Firstly, gather your ingredients. A simple yet tasty filling can be made by mixing together cream cheese, shredded Parmesan, mayonnaise, spinach, garlic, red pepper, and salt. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even include mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese of your choice! For a more savoury option, you can use broccoli and cheese as a filling.

Once you have your ingredients, grab a small bowl and start mixing. You can also sauté onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the spinach to enhance the flavour. If you're using frozen spinach, remember to thaw and drain it properly. Chop the spinach into smaller pieces to ensure it blends well with the filling.

Stuffing the chicken:

Now it's time to stuff the chicken pockets. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through, as you want the filling to stay inside.

Use a spoon to generously stuff the mixture into the pockets of the chicken. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed and be careful not to overstuff, as this might cause the filling to ooze out during cooking.

You can secure the filling with toothpicks, especially if you want to ensure the chicken remains sealed during cooking. Soak the toothpicks in cold water for at least 15 minutes before use.

And that's it! Your chicken breasts are now stuffed and ready for the air fryer. Remember to season the chicken and preheat your air fryer for the best results. Enjoy the delicious aroma of your creation as it cooks!

Air fryer settings: preheat to 350°F–400°F, spritz oil, and place chicken inside

To cook stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer, you'll need to preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 350°F and 400°F. Some sources recommend cooking at 350°F for 20 minutes, while others suggest a higher temperature of 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes. If you're short on time, one source recommends cooking at 375°F for just 4 to 6 minutes.

Before placing the chicken in the air fryer, it's important to prepare the meat and the air fryer basket. First, use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. Then, stuff the mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts. You can secure the filling with toothpicks if needed. Next, brush or spritz oil into the air fryer basket to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart and not overlapping.

Once the air fryer has preheated to the desired temperature, you can place the chicken inside and cook it according to your chosen recipe's instructions. It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, so it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F in the thickest portion before serving.

Cooking time: 15–30 minutes, or until the internal temp is 165°F

The cooking time for stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. It is recommended to cook the chicken for 15-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

When checking the temperature, ensure that the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the filling. This will ensure an accurate reading. It is also important to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly for food safety reasons.

To prevent the chicken from drying out, it is recommended to brush the chicken with oil or use a cooking spray. This will help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from sticking to the air fryer basket. It is also important not to overcook the chicken, as this can cause it to become dry and tough.

For smaller chicken breasts, the cooking time may be shorter, around 15-20 minutes. It is always important to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked properly.

Frequently asked questions