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Amazing 4-Step Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken

Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken
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Enjoy this Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken for a wonderfully creamy and spicy treat. We perfected the stuffing method so your delicious filling stays right inside the chicken breasts while they cook to perfection in the air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pickled jalapeños (drained well)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
  2. Carefully butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Do not cut all the way through.
  3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly into the pocket of each chicken breast. Gently close the opening. You can secure it with toothpicks if needed, but try to keep the filling contained.
  4. Place the panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Lightly spray the outside of the stuffed chicken breasts with cooking spray, then gently press both sides into the panko to coat lightly.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. You may need to cook in batches.
  7. Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remember to remove any toothpicks before eating.

Notes

  • Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
  • Drain the pickled jalapeños very well; excess liquid can make the filling runny.
  • For extra crispness, you can spray the panko coating again lightly halfway through cooking.
  • Richard suggests serving this with a side of fresh avocado slices to balance the heat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdiarist.com/air-fryer-jalapeno-popper-chicken-recipe/