Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying while delivering crispy, delicious results. One dish that shines in the air fryer is Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast. This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad—juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella—with tender chicken breast, creating a meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast, including tips for perfecting the recipe, suggested side dishes, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s get started!

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Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 8 thin pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing the chicken)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes.
2. Butterfly the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides.

Step 2: Stuff the Chicken

1. Layer the Ingredients: Open each butterflied chicken breast and layer 2 slices of mozzarella, 3-4 basil leaves, and a few tomato halves (or slices) inside the pocket.
2. Secure the Chicken: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to close the pockets, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.

Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
2. Cook the Chicken: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
3. Check for Doneness: If the chicken is not fully cooked, add an additional 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken can dry out.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
2. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Before serving, drizzle each chicken breast with balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet finish.
3. Garnish with Fresh Basil: Add a few fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor.

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Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil are key to achieving the authentic Caprese flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff: Overfilling the chicken can cause the filling to spill out during cooking. Stick to a moderate amount of cheese, tomatoes, and basil.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the model of your air fryer. Always check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.
• Add a Crunchy Coating (Optional): For extra texture, you can coat the stuffed chicken breasts with breadcrumbs or panko before air frying.

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Suggested Side Dishes

Pair your Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast with these delicious sides:

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan, then roast in the oven or air fryer.
2. Lemon Herb Quinoa: Cook quinoa with vegetable broth, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for a light and flavorful grain dish.
3. Caprese Salad: Double down on the Caprese theme with a simple salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.
4. Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any extra balsamic glaze.

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Variations

1. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken: Replace the mozzarella and tomatoes with spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired twist.
2. Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato: Spread a layer of pesto inside the chicken and add sun-dried tomatoes for a bold, Mediterranean flavor.
3. Bacon and Cheddar: Add cooked bacon and sharp cheddar cheese for a smoky, savory version.
4. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and stuff portobello mushrooms with the Caprese ingredients for a meat-free alternative.

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Why This Recipe Works

The Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a restaurant-quality meal. The air fryer ensures the chicken is juicy on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, while the Caprese filling adds a burst of freshness and flavor. Plus, the recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences or dietary needs.

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Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time to 15-18 minutes, as thighs cook faster than breasts.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them in the air fryer just before serving.

3. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the stuffed chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

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Conclusion

The Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the convenience of air frying with the timeless flavors of a Caprese salad. With its juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil and tomatoes, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

So, fire up your air fryer and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!

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Enjoy your cooking adventure