Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts in the Air Fryer
Take your chicken dinner to the next level with our mouth-watering Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts made in the air fryer. This recipe is a must-try for those looking to amp up their typical chicken meals. By using an air fryer, you can easily achieve a crispy yet juicy texture. Furthermore, this main dish pairs seamlessly with a fresh green salad and some warm bread. Whether you butterfly the chicken breasts yourself or have your butcher do it, this dish is sure to impress.
Yield and Preparation Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 3
Yield: 3 stuffed chicken breasts
Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
- 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
- 3 slices Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 spears fresh asparagus
- 9 slices bacon
- 12 wooden toothpicks
Step-By-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
Preparation
- Firstly, if your chicken breasts are not pre-butterflied, carefully cut them in half horizontally. This creates a pocket for the stuffing.
- Secondly, season each chicken breast with lemon-pepper seasoning on all sides. This step adds flavor and essential nutrients without the need for extra salt.
Assembling the Stuffed Chicken
- Lay a slice of Monterey Jack cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast.
- Place two spears of asparagus parallel to the cheese.
- Fold the chicken breasts over the stuffing, securing them with wooden toothpicks.
- Wrap each chicken breast with three slices of bacon, ensuring full coverage. The bacon not only adds flavor but also helps keep the cheese and asparagus inside during cooking.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the process.
- Place the wrapped chicken breasts inside the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each chicken breast. Continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (73°C) to ensure safety.
How to Ensure Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken
To achieve the best result, do not skip preheating the air fryer. Additionally, ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches the recommended safe levels. Allowing the chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps juices redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat.
Why You’ll Love Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breasts in the Air Fryer
These bacon-wrapped stuffed chicken breasts are quick, using an air frying method that saves time compared to traditional baking. Moreover, the air fryer helps lock in juices while giving the bacon a crispy texture, all without excessive oil use, making it a slightly healthier option. Most importantly, this meal is versatile and can fit nicely into various mealtime plans, whether you’re prepping for the week or need a go-to recipe on busy nights.
Healthier Cooking Tips
While the recipe calls for bacon, you could opt for a turkey or plant-based alternative to reduce cholesterol and fat, while still achieving a deliciously savory flavor. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, as stuffing ingredients can boost nutrient intake while maintaining the dish’s flavor.
Try this delightful air fryer stuffed chicken recipe, and let us know the results. This perfectly flavored dish will so easily become a family weeknight favorite or an impressive meal for guests.
