Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Juicy chicken breasts are filled with creamy cheese, sharp cheddar, and fresh jalapeño, then air-fried until golden and fully cooked. This protein-packed weeknight dinner is ready in about 35 minutes.
Prep: 15 min · Cook: 18 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeño peppers
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Soften the cream cheese, shred the cheddar, and finely chop the jalapeños, removing the seeds for less heat. Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapeños in a bowl. (about 5 min) — 375°F
- Pat the chicken dry. Cut a deep pocket horizontally into the thickest side of each breast, taking care not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken inside and out with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. (about 5 min) — Room temperature
- Divide the cheese mixture among the chicken breasts and press the openings closed. Brush the chicken with olive oil, and secure any loose edges with toothpicks if needed. (about 3 min) — Room temperature
- Arrange the stuffed chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air-fry for 9 minutes, then carefully turn and cook for 7 to 10 minutes more, until the thickest part reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer and the filling is hot. (about 18 min) — 375°F
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving, spooning any melted filling back over the chicken. (about 5 min) — Resting