Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken Breast

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Toothpicks
• Meat thermometer

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Jalapeño Popper Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced
• 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Jalapeño Popper Filling

• Chopped parsley
• Extra bacon crumbles
• Ranch dressing drizzle
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, bacon crumbles, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Time Required

1. 5 minutes

Intensity Level

1. Easy

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
2. The pocket should be deep enough to hold the filling securely.

Time Required

1. 5 minutes

Intensity Level

1. Moderate

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Spoon the jalapeño popper filling evenly into each chicken breast pocket.
2. Secure the openings with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

Time Required

1. 5 minutes

Intensity Level

1. Moderate

Step 4: Season the Chicken

1. Brush the outside of each chicken breast lightly with olive oil.
2. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.

Time Required

1. 3 minutes

Intensity Level

1. Easy

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and develop a flavorful golden exterior.

Time Required

1. 3 minutes

Intensity Level

1. Easy

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Place the stuffed chicken breasts into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
2. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
3. The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Calories: 420 · Protein: 38g · Fat: 27g · Carbohydrates: 4g · Saturated Fat: 11g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 2g · Sodium: 620mg