Anti-Inflammatory 48g Crispy Stuffed Chicken with Ham and Melted Cheese

A nutrient-dense air fryer recipe that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a savory pocket of ham and melted cheese, seasoned with anti-inflammatory herbs and spices.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 8 oz each), trimmed of excess fat
• 2 slices high-quality cured ham (such as prosciuttini or nitrate-free deli ham)
• 2 oz part-skim mozzarella or sharp white cheddar cheese, sliced into two thick batons
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 2 tbsp golden flaxseed meal
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 large egg (beaten)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes and lightly mist the basket tray with high-smoke-point cooking oil spray.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry, then cut a deep horizontal pocket into the thickest side of each breast without slicing all the way through.
3. Fold one slice of ham around one cheese baton and push the bundle into the pocket of a chicken breast; secure with 1-2 toothpicks. Repeat for the second breast.
4. In a shallow bowl, whisk the beaten egg. In a second bowl, combine almond flour, flaxseed meal, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until uniform.
5. Dip each stuffed chicken breast in the egg, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the dry spice mixture to ensure an even coating.
6. Place chicken in the air fryer basket with space between them. Brush or spray with olive oil and cook at 380°F (193°C) for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from air fryer and rest for 5 minutes.
8. Remove toothpicks, slice into medallions, and serve warm.

Notes

Ensure the seam is securely sealed with toothpicks to prevent cheese leakage. Do not skip black pepper, as piperine enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric. Use a mister or brush for oil to avoid degrading the air fryer's non-stick coating with aerosol propellants.