Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast Bliss

Name: Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 2, 2025

Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast! It’s not just delicious; it’s a total game changer for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Picture this: juicy chicken breasts bursting with creamy cheddar and vibrant broccoli, all cooked to perfection in my trusty air fryer. The best part? It’s so simple to prepare that you’ll want to make it every week!

I remember the first time I tried this recipe; I was juggling a busy schedule and needed something quick yet satisfying. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I had struck gold. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the chicken a delightful crispiness that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s low in calories and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free choice. Trust me, whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast - detail 1

Ingredients List

Getting the right ingredients is key to making the Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast a hit at your dinner table! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy stuffing and cooking.
1 cup broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli works best, chopped into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, but feel free to choose your favorite!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor; fresh garlic is great too if you have it on hand.
1 teaspoon onion powder: It complements the garlic beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Salt to taste: A little sprinkle will bring all the flavors together.
Pepper to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick.
Olive oil spray: Use this to lightly coat your air fryer basket, ensuring nothing sticks and everything cooks evenly.

With these ingredients prepped and ready, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a fantastic meal that everyone will love!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast

Let’s get cooking! Preparing the Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Follow along, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious meal to enjoy!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps the chicken cook evenly and gives it that lovely golden exterior. Think of it as giving your air fryer a warm-up before the main event!

Steam the Broccoli

Now, let’s give that broccoli some love! Steam 1 cup of broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green. You can do this in a steamer basket over boiling water or even in the microwave with a splash of water in a covered bowl. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork. This step not only softens the broccoli but also enhances its flavor, making it a perfect partner for the cheddar cheese.

Prepare the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, combine your steamed broccoli and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir them together until the cheese starts to melt slightly and coats the broccoli. This cheesy mixture is the star of the show, so make sure it’s well combined! If you want to add a little extra flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of garlic powder or some chopped green onions. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Now, let’s get into the chicken! Take your two chicken breasts and carefully cut a pocket into each one. Use a sharp knife to slice horizontally, making sure you don’t cut all the way through. You want to create a nice pocket that can hold all that delicious filling. Stuff each chicken breast with the broccoli and cheese mixture, pressing it in gently to ensure it’s packed tightly. Proper stuffing is key to prevent any of that yummy filling from escaping during cooking!

Season the Chicken

Once they’re stuffed, it’s time to season! Sprinkle the outside of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Feel free to get creative here—if you like a little heat, add some paprika or cayenne. This seasoning will enhance the chicken’s flavor beautifully.

Cook in the Air Fryer

Now comes the exciting part—cooking! Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching to allow for even air circulation. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it! This ensures your chicken is perfectly juicy and safe to eat. Oh, the aroma will be incredible!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips to share! First off, don’t skip the preheating step—this helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior we all love. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon to the stuffing for an extra flavor punch!

Another pro tip? Make sure to let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more succulent. If you prefer a bit of a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix. And hey, if you have leftover stuffing, don’t hesitate to bake it in a small dish alongside the chicken for a cheesy side dish that’s just as tasty! With these tips, you’ll be a stuffed chicken pro in no time!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to the Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast, you can enjoy a delicious meal without the guilt! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (1 stuffed chicken breast):

Calories: 350
Protein: 40g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. This dish is not only low in calories but also packed with protein, making it a great option for a healthy, satisfying meal!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but I recommend thawing it first to ensure even cooking. Just steam it until it’s tender before mixing it with the cheddar cheese.

Q2: What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the dish!

Q3: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken.

Q4: Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the chicken breasts and season them a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. It makes for a super quick weeknight dinner!

Q5: What sides pair well with this stuffed chicken?
This dish goes great with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. You can also serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 35 minutes!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in calories, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheddar, and fresh broccoli creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
Versatile: Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite cheeses or add extra veggies for a personal touch!
Air Fryer Magic: The air fryer locks in moisture while giving a crispy exterior, making every bite irresistible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your Air Fryer Cheddar & Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breast is super easy! Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it—just wrap each stuffed breast tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, pop the chicken back into your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the chicken moist while giving it that lovely crispiness back. Enjoy every bite!