Air-Fried Stuffed Chicken: Cooking Time And Tips

Cooking stuffed chicken in an air fryer is an easy and quick way to prepare a tasty meal. The cooking time varies depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, but generally, it takes around 18-30 minutes to cook stuffed chicken breasts in an air fryer. The key to success is ensuring the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F, which can be checked with a meat thermometer.

Recommended cooking time and temperature

The recommended cooking temperature for stuffed chicken in an air fryer is around 360°F–375°F (180°C). It is important to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. A general guideline is to cook the chicken for 18–30 minutes at 375°F. Smaller chicken breasts will take around 18–20 minutes, while larger breasts may require a few more minutes. One source suggests cooking for 25–30 minutes at 375°F.

It is important to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. This can be checked using a meat thermometer. The chicken is ready when the juices run clear. It is recommended to let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking to seal in the moisture.

Chicken preparation

For this recipe, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The number of chicken breasts you prepare will depend on the size of your air fryer basket. You want to ensure there is enough space between the chicken breasts for air to circulate. Two large chicken breasts are ideal for ensuring sufficient space while allowing for good airflow during cooking.

Before you begin stuffing the chicken, you should pat the breasts dry with a paper towel. Then, use a sharp knife to cut a pocket into the side of each breast. Be careful not to slice all the way through, so the stuffing doesn't come out. If you are using smaller chicken breasts, you can leave the thinnest part of the chicken alone and only stuff the thickest part.

For the filling, you can use a mixture of cream cheese, shredded Parmesan, mayonnaise, spinach, garlic, red pepper, and salt. You can also add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, onions, and avocado oil to enhance the flavor. Mix the ingredients in a small bowl, and then use a spoon to stuff the mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Secure the filling with toothpicks to keep it inside.

Once the chicken breasts are stuffed, you can season them with a mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken with oil, and then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the breasts.

Filling preparation

To prepare the filling for your stuffed chicken, you can use a variety of ingredients, depending on your preference. Here are some options and steps to create a delicious filling:

Cream Cheese, Spinach, and Parmesan Filling:

This is a classic combination that creates a creamy and flavourful filling. Here's what you need to do:

• Gather your ingredients: cream cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, baby spinach, garlic, red pepper flakes (optional), and salt to taste.
• Chop the spinach: If you prefer smaller pieces of spinach in your filling, give the leaves a quick rough chop. This helps it blend into the mixture better.
• Mix the ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, Parmesan, mayonnaise, chopped spinach, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt until well combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Before stuffing the chicken, taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Mozzarella, Pesto, and Cream Cheese Filling:

For a cheesy and indulgent filling, this combination is a great choice. Here's how to prepare it:

• Gather your ingredients: mozzarella cheese, pesto, and cream cheese (optional).
• Slice the mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella into slices that will fit into the pocket of the chicken breast.
• Prepare the pesto: If you're making your own pesto, blend fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese to taste. You can also use store-bought pesto.
• Assemble the filling: In a small bowl, mix the pesto and cream cheese (if using). Then, add a slice of mozzarella to the pocket of the chicken breast, along with a spoonful of the pesto and cream cheese mixture.

Sage and Onion Stuffing:

If you're looking for a more traditional stuffing flavour, sage and onion is a great option. Here's how to make it:

• Saute onions and garlic: Finely chop an onion and some garlic cloves. Saute them in a pan with a little olive oil or butter until softened and fragrant.
• Add sage: Chop fresh sage leaves and add them to the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for a few minutes to release the sage's aroma.
• Mix in other ingredients: You can add breadcrumbs, chicken broth, and any other seasonings you like to create a moist and flavourful stuffing.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: As with the other fillings, taste the stuffing and adjust the seasoning before stuffing the chicken.

Tips for Preparing the Filling:

• Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and combinations to create a filling that suits your taste.
• When mixing your filling, you can add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, red peppers, or even cooked and chopped mushrooms.
• Always taste the filling before stuffing the chicken to ensure the seasoning is to your liking.
• If you're using a creamy base like cream cheese or mayonnaise, make sure it is at room temperature so it mixes easily with the other ingredients.

Seasoning

Dry Rub Seasoning

A dry rub is a mixture of dried herbs and spices that you can apply to the chicken before cooking. For stuffed chicken, it is recommended to use a basic combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix these ingredients in a small bowl, then rub the chicken with oil and sprinkle the seasoning mixture on top. This dry rub will add a savoury flavour to your chicken and complement the creamy filling.

Fresh Herbs and Spices

If you prefer fresh herbs, you can use minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, olive oil, and these seasonings to a large bowl. Coat the chicken evenly with the oil and seasonings using your hands. This method will infuse the chicken with flavour and help create a crispy, golden-brown exterior when air-fried.

Salt and Pepper

A simple yet effective seasoning for stuffed chicken is kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning the entire inside and outside of the chicken breasts before stuffing will enhance the flavour and juiciness of the meat.

Pesto

For a unique twist, you can add a spoonful of pesto to your stuffed chicken. Pesto, made with herbs, garlic, and olive oil, will add a burst of flavour to your dish. You can also include a slice of mozzarella and some cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch.

Remember, seasoning is a versatile process, and you can adjust the ingredients and quantities to suit your taste. Always ensure your chicken is thoroughly coated in the seasoning of your choice before placing it in the air fryer.

Reheating

Preparation

Before reheating, it is essential to ensure that your stuffed chicken is properly stored and safe to consume. Ideally, leftovers should be refrigerated and reheated within a day. When preparing to reheat, check that the chicken is not overstuffed, as this can impact even heating and cause the filling to ooze out.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This temperature ensures that your stuffed chicken is thoroughly reheated while maintaining its texture and moisture.

Spacing the Chicken Breasts

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart. Proper spacing allows for even cooking and helps achieve the desired crispy texture.

For optimal results, reheat the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer for 4-6 minutes. This duration should be sufficient to heat the chicken thoroughly while maintaining its quality.

Checking Temperature

To ensure food safety, it is crucial to verify the internal temperature of the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached a temperature of 165°F at its deepest point. This temperature indicates that the chicken is safe to consume.

Sides and Serving

You can pair reheated stuffed chicken with various sides, such as roasted root vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and safely reheated stuffed chicken!

Frequently asked questions