Introduction

Air fryer stuffed chicken breasts are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. Filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Cream Cheese, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 (8-ounce/225g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
1½ teaspoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 ounces cream cheese (softened, 56g)
¾ cup fresh spinach (finely chopped, 24g)
3 tablespoons grated parmesan
2 tablespoons diced tomato
2 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together cream cheese, chopped spinach, grated parmesan, diced tomato, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and salt until well combined to make the filling.
Step 2: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully cut a pocket into the fattest side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 3: Stuff each chicken pocket with the prepared filling and secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.
Step 4: Rub the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper evenly over the surface.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch each other for even cooking.
Step 7: Cook for 15 to 17 minutes or until the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before removing the toothpicks and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the filling for a mild kick.
Swap fresh spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green taste.
Use mozzarella or feta cheese instead of parmesan for a creamy texture variation.
Make sure not to overstuff the chicken pockets to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through to retain crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze stuffed chicken breasts?

Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the stuffed chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Cream Cheese, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 99 reviews

This Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe features juicy chicken breasts filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, spinach, parmesan, tomato, and garlic. Coated with a flavorful blend of spices and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, this dish offers a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option with a crispy exterior and rich, melty filling.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 (8-ounce/225g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
1½ teaspoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Filling

2 ounces cream cheese, softened (56g)
¾ cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (24g)
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons diced tomato
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely chopped spinach, grated parmesan, diced tomato, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed to form the filling.
Make Chicken Pockets: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest long side of each breast, being careful not to slice completely through.
Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the prepared filling into each chicken pocket, filling it generously. Secure the opening with toothpicks to keep the filling contained during cooking.
Season the Chicken: Rub the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper for a flavorful crust.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to allow proper air circulation. Cook for 15 to 17 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks carefully before serving for a safe and enjoyable meal.

Notes

Ensure the chicken pockets are not cut all the way through to prevent filling leakage.
To check doneness accurately, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
You can customize the filling with other vegetables or cheeses if desired.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain moisture and enhances tenderness.

Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken, Stuffed Chicken Breast, Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Quick Dinner, Spinach Stuffed Chicken