This air fryer stuffed chicken breast is juicy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Stuffed with mozzarella, cream cheese, and spinach, it cooks perfectly in the air fryer with no baking or frying needed. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or low-carb meals. Save this easy air fryer chicken recipe for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in about 25 minutes)
- Juicy chicken with a rich, cheesy center
- Family-friendly and dinner-party worthy
- Budget-friendly with simple ingredients
- Customizable with different fillings
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional add-ins:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Cooked bacon bits
- Mushrooms
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 190°C / 375°F for 3 minutes.
- Prepare the chicken – Slice a pocket lengthwise into each chicken breast (don’t cut all the way through).
- Make the filling – In a bowl, mix mozzarella, cream cheese, spinach, and garlic.
- Stuff the chicken – Fill each pocket evenly. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Season – Season chicken all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Air fry – Place stuffed chicken in a single layer. Cook for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F.
- Rest and serve – Let rest 3 minutes, remove toothpicks, and serve.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Toothpicks (optional)
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
Tips & Variations
- Extra juicy: Pound chicken slightly before stuffing
- Low-carb: Use full-fat cheese and skip breadcrumbs
- Italian style: Add marinara and Parmesan on top
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat in air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 5–6 minutes
- Avoid overfilling to prevent cheese leakage
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes
- Pair with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad
- Drizzle with garlic butter or cream sauce
- Garnish with parsley or basil for presentation
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – estimates)
- Calories: 390
- Carbs: 6 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Fat: 22 g
Conclusion
This air fryer stuffed chicken breast is the perfect combination of easy and elegant. Juicy chicken, melty filling, and big flavor made fast with minimal cleanup. Save, print, or share this recipe for a guaranteed dinner win any night of the week.
FAQ
Can I freeze stuffed chicken breast?
Yes. Freeze uncooked or cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Stuff and refrigerate the chicken up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Cheddar, provolone, or feta all work well.
Do I need oil for this recipe?
No oil is required, but a light spray can help with browning.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Don’t overfill and secure with toothpicks if needed.