Go Back
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 4 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, adjust to taste) - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (for coating) - Cooking spray These ingredients create a tasty blend. The cream cheese and cheddar give a rich flavor. The jalapeños add a nice kick. You can adjust the heat by using fresh or pickled jalapeños. - Bacon bits for extra crunch - Green onions for a fresh taste - Different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella Adding bacon bits gives a smoky flavor. Green onions bring a fresh crunch. Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for more variety. - Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter option - Panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for a different texture - Chicken thighs instead of breasts for juiciness Greek yogurt cuts calories but keeps creaminess. Panko breadcrumbs can give a lighter crunch. Chicken thighs often stay juicier and add flavor. Use these substitutes to fit your taste and dietary needs. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. While it heats, take two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Butterfly them by cutting horizontally but not all the way through. This creates pockets for your filling. In a mixing bowl, combine 4 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Next, add 1/4 cup of diced jalapeños. You can use fresh or pickled jalapeños, depending on your taste. Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well blended. Open the butterflied chicken breasts. Divide the cheese mixture evenly between them. Carefully fold the chicken back over the filling and press gently to keep it in place. Now, prepare to coat the chicken. Place crushed cornflakes in a shallow dish. Spray the stuffed chicken with cooking spray. Then, press each side into the cornflakes to create a crunchy layer. Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Cook for about 15-18 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked and the coating should be golden brown and crispy. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken juicy. Slice the chicken or serve it whole. For a nice touch, serve on a rustic wooden board. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and add a side of ranch dipping sauce. Enjoy! To make the best crunchy coating, start with crushed cornflakes. They create a great texture. After you coat the chicken with cooking spray, press it firmly into the cornflakes. This step helps the coating stick well. Remember to coat all sides for even crunchiness. If you want an extra crunch, you can double coat the chicken. Just spray, dip, and repeat! You can control how spicy your dish is. If you like it mild, use fewer jalapeños. You can also remove the seeds. For more heat, add extra jalapeños or try spicy cheese. Mixing in pepper jack cheese can add a nice kick. Always taste your cheese mixture before stuffing the chicken. This way, you can adjust the heat to your liking. Cooking chicken to the right temperature is key. Use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside. This ensures it is safe to eat. Air frying usually takes about 15-18 minutes, but all air fryers vary. If your chicken is thick, it may need extra time. Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside, making the chicken juicy and tender. {{image_2}} You can mix the cheese in many fun ways. Instead of sharp cheddar, try pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can also use mozzarella for a gooey texture. Cream cheese is a must for that smooth filling, but feel free to add a little feta for a tangy kick. Each cheese brings its own flavor, so experiment to find your favorite blend! You don’t have to stick with chicken. Turkey breast works well for a leaner option. If you want a heartier meal, try pork chops. Fish like salmon can add a unique taste. Just remember to adjust your cooking time based on the protein you choose. Your air fryer will still make it crispy and delicious! Want a meat-free option? Stuff bell peppers with the cheese mix instead. You can also use large mushrooms, like portobellos, for a hearty bite. Eggplant slices can be another great base, giving you that savory flavor. Each of these options will let you enjoy the same spicy, cheesy filling without meat. To store leftovers, let the chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it well to avoid drying out. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the basket and heat for 6-8 minutes. This will keep the coating crispy and warm the filling. If you want to freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the air fryer time. Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just remember, they will take longer to cook. It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can use the fridge or microwave to thaw. If you cook them frozen, check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You can serve this dish with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Rice: White or brown rice pairs well. - Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. - Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies work great. - Dipping Sauce: Ranch or blue cheese dressing adds flavor. These options will make your meal more filling and fun! To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The temperature should be 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The meat should be white, not pink, and juices should run clear. Yes, you can skip the cornflake coating. If you prefer a lighter dish, just stuff the chicken and cook. You can also use breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a different texture. These options provide a tasty crunch without cornflakes. You learned about the tasty Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and smart tips for the best results. You can even explore fun variations and safe storage methods. Remember, making this dish is easy and can fit anyone's taste. Enjoy your cooking and impress friends with your new skills. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Air Fryer Jalapeño Popper Chicken! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, spicy filling of cream cheese and sharp cheddar, all coated in crunchy cornflakes for extra texture. Perfect for a family dinner or game day snack, this dish is sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this delicious dish to your table today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (for coating)

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating, butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. This will create pockets for stuffing.

    Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

      Stuff the Chicken: Open the butterflied chicken breasts and evenly divide the cheese mixture among them. Carefully fold them back over and press gently to secure the filling.

        Coat with Cornflakes: Place the crushed cornflakes in a shallow dish. Gently coat the stuffed chicken breasts with cooking spray, then press each side into the cornflakes to create a crunchy coating.

          Air Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

            Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice or serve whole.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 2

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley and accompanied by a side of ranch dipping sauce for an extra indulgent touch.