Ever crave a restaurant-worthy dish but dread the calories and cleanup? What if you could make a juicy, cheesy, spinach-artichoke-stuffed chicken breast—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—with minimal oil and effort? Enter the air fryer spinach artichoke stuffed chicken breast: a protein-packed, low-carb masterpiece that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ Why this dish works (hint: perfect texture + bold flavors)
✅ Step-by-step instructions (with pro tips for the best results)
✅ Variations & serving ideas (for keto, gluten-free, or meal prep)
✅ Common mistakes to avoid (so your chicken stays juicy, not dry)
Let’s dive in!
Why Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast?
Air fryers are game-changers for crispy, healthy meals. Unlike deep frying, they use 90% less oil while delivering that golden crunch. And when you stuff chicken breast with a creamy spinach-artichoke filling? Next-level flavor without the guilt.
Key Benefits:
✔ Faster than baking (cooks in 15–20 mins!)
✔ Locks in moisture (no more dry chicken)
✔ Easy cleanup (no splattered oil or messy pans)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4)
For the Spinach Artichoke Filling:
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1 cup cream cheese (softened)
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½ cup chopped spinach (fresh or thawed frozen)
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½ cup chopped artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
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1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
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Extra Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley or basil
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Lemon wedges (for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Filling
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, spinach, artichokes, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings until well combined.
Pro Tip: Squeeze excess water from spinach to prevent a soggy filling.
2. Butterfly the Chicken
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Lay chicken flat on a cutting board.
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Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the thickest part, stopping ½ inch before cutting all the way through.
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Open like a book.
Pro Tip: Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness (for even cooking).
3. Stuff & Secure
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Spread ¼ cup filling onto each breast.
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Fold chicken over and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
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Rub with oil, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Air Fry to Perfection
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Place chicken in the basket, leaving space between each.
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Cook for 15–18 mins, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, spritz with oil or broil for 1–2 mins at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your stuffed chicken with:
🍽 Low-carb: Roasted asparagus, zucchini noodles, or a crisp salad.
🍽 Comfort food: Garlic mashed cauliflower or roasted potatoes.
🍽 Meal prep: Slice and store for salads or wraps.
Variations to Try
🔹 Keto-friendly: Use full-fat cream cheese & skip breadcrumbs.
🔹 Gluten-free: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
🔹 Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar to the filling.
🔹 Spicy kick: Mix in jalapeños or hot sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overstuffing → Filling leaks out.
❌ Skipping toothpicks → Chicken unfolds while cooking.
❌ Overcooking → Use a meat thermometer! (165°F is ideal.)
Final Thoughts
This air fryer spinach artichoke stuffed chicken breast is a restaurant-quality meal made simple—juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or impressing dinner guests, it’s a foolproof recipe that delivers every time.
Ready to try it? Grab your air fryer and whip up this dish tonight. Your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you!
