Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is a delicious, creamy, and spicy twist on classic stuffed chicken. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich jalapeno popper filling, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. It’s a perfect meal for spice lovers and those who enjoy bold flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in the air fryer
- Crispy on the outside, juicy and cheesy on the inside
- Packed with spicy jalapeno flavor and creamy cheese
- Great for meal prep or a satisfying weeknight dinner
- Requires simple ingredients that are easy to find
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cream cheese, softened
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh jalapenos, diced
- Cooked bacon, crumbled
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Slice each chicken breast crosswise, making deep cuts without cutting all the way through.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mixture into the cuts of the chicken breasts.
- Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle paprika on top.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Mild Version: Remove jalapeno seeds or substitute with mild green chilies.
- Extra Crispy: Coat the chicken with crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Low-Carb Option: Use full-fat cream cheese and bacon for a keto-friendly meal.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or onions for added crunch and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each cooked chicken breast individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
How do I keep the filling from oozing out?
Use cold cream cheese to help it stay in place while cooking. You can also secure the filling with toothpicks if needed.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time since thighs may take longer to cook through.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a moderate spice level. Remove jalapeno seeds for a milder taste or add more for extra heat.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I prevent dry chicken?
Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients and seasonings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and stuff the chicken ahead of time, then cook when ready to eat.
What other fillings can I use?
Try using spinach and feta, sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella, or buffalo sauce and blue cheese.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is a delicious, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with variations and make it your own!
PrintAir Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Description
Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Hasselback Chicken combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with creamy cheese and crispy bacon, all cooked to juicy perfection in an air fryer. This low-carb, keto-friendly dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and crumbled bacon until well combined.
-
Slice the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make horizontal slits across each breast, about 1/2 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through. These slits will hold the filling.
-
Stuff the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, including inside the slits. Fill each slit with the cheese and jalapeño mixture, dividing it evenly between the two breasts.
-
Preheat the Air Fryer: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
-
Cook the Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy, and juicy Jalapeño Popper Hasselback Chicken!
Notes
- For a milder flavor, use fresh jalapeños with seeds removed instead of pickled ones.
- If you prefer extra crispy bacon, consider pre-cooking it until crisp before adding it to the filling.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *