Looking for a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the irresistible flavors of cheese and broccoli? Look no further! Our Air Fryer Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in a deliciously cheesy, healthy meal that’s sure to impress. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the chicken breasts are completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and chop into small pieces.
- In a medium bowl, mix chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally into the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the broccoli and cheese mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Secure the pocket opening with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with additional salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove toothpicks before serving. Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the broccoli and cheese filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to stuff the chicken.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They cook evenly and are easy to stuff.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the chicken to burst during cooking. Aim for a generous but manageable amount.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 66g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 180mg
