- Butterfly the Chicken: On a cutting board, use a sharp knife to butterfly the chicken breasts. To do this, slice the chicken breast horizontally from one side to the other, stopping just before you cut all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Divide the filling mixture in half and spread it evenly inside each butterflied chicken breast. Fold the chicken breast back over to enclose the filling. Secure the edges with toothpicks to keep the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures that the chicken breasts cook evenly from the moment you place them in the basket.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with olive oil. This helps them develop a golden-brown crust in the air fryer.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow for even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken breasts rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier.
- Slice and Serve: Carefully remove the toothpicks, slice the chicken breasts, and serve hot. Pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Secure the Filling: Use toothpicks to securely close the chicken breasts, preventing the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overstuffing the chicken breasts, as this can cause the filling to spill out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Filling Variations
- Cheese and Ham: Stuff the chicken breasts with a mixture of Swiss cheese and ham for a twist on a classic Cordon Bleu.
- Mushroom and Swiss: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then mix with Swiss cheese for an earthy, savory filling.
- Caprese: Fill with mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh and vibrant Italian-inspired dish.
Conclusion
Air fryer stuffed chicken breasts are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home. The air fryer ensures that the chicken remains juicy while achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its flavorful filling and elegant presentation. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal that’s both simple and sophisticated.