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Crispy Air Fryer Stuffed Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Breasts

crispy air fryer stuffed jalapeño cheddar chicken breasts - featured image
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A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a spicy jalapeño and melty cheddar cheese filling, cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Perfect for a flavorful and comforting dinner with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g each)
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each breast horizontally without cutting all the way through.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Fold in chopped cilantro if using.
  3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each chicken breast pocket evenly. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed.
  4. Brush the outside of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil. Press panko breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken to form a crust.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken breasts in the basket without overcrowding.
  6. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
  7. Remove toothpicks or twine carefully. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

Secure the filling with toothpicks or twine to prevent cheese from leaking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness. Preheat the air fryer for best results. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. Avoid microwaving leftovers to keep crust crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, stuffed chicken breasts, jalapeño chicken, cheddar chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, spicy chicken, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://katedishes.com/crispy-air-fryer-stuffed-jalape-n-o-cheddar-chicken-breasts-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/