Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Introducing the Air Fryer Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. In just 40 minutes, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by creating a pocket: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally into the thickest part of each chicken breast, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through. Be sure to leave the edges intact to hold the stuffing.
- Prepare the broccoli cheese filling: In a medium bowl, mix chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Stuff the chicken: Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli cheese mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed, preventing the filling from falling out during cooking.
- Season the exterior: Lightly spray the stuffed chicken breasts with olive oil. Sprinkle additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder on the outside of the chicken for extra flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to warm up for 3-4 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps create a crispy exterior.
- Cook the chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown exterior.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or additional shredded cheese before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and easy stuffing. Look for breasts that are similar in size for uniform cooking.
- Prep the Filling Ahead: To save time, prepare the broccoli cheese filling in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the chicken. This will also enhance the flavors.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to cram as much filling as possible into the chicken, be careful not to overstuff. Leave a little room for the filling to expand during cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices. Adding a touch of crushed red pepper can give it a nice kick!
- Serve with a Side: Pair your stuffed chicken with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
