Irresistible Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken

It’s a smoky, spicy whirlwind of flavors that tickles your taste buds and hugs your senses like a well-loved blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned, cradling a cheesy jalapeño filling that bursts with every bite, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Yes, we’re diving into the world of Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken, where crispy meets creamy in an explosion of deliciousness. For more inspiration, check out this easy Rotel sausage crescents recipe.

Now, let me take you back to that one unforgettable barbecue at my friend Dave’s place. Picture it: laughter ringing in the air, friends gathered around, and the aromatic scent of grilled goodies wafting through. The star of the show? Jalapeño poppers, of course! But this time, I decided to combine my love for those spicy bites with my favorite chicken dish. And just like that, Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken was born—a dish perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your guest list.
• Fresh Jalapeños: Choose firm jalapeños for that perfect kick; they should be bright green and glossy.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that balances the spice perfectly.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The sharper the cheddar, the better; it melts beautifully and adds depth to each bite.
• Bacon Bits: Using crispy bacon bits gives an irresistible crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy filling.
• Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle elevates the overall flavor profile without overpowering other ingredients.
• Paprika: A dash of paprika enhances color and adds a subtle smokiness to your dish.

For the Toppings:

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds freshness and brightens up the rich flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-crispy exterior we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

Take those lovely boneless chicken breasts and carefully slice them into thin hasselback cuts—don’t go too deep! You want pockets for all that cheesy goodness without cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Mix Up Your Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, minced fresh jalapeños (remove seeds if you prefer less heat), garlic powder, paprika, and bacon bits until everything is well mixed. It’s now a creamy dream!

Step 4: Stuff Those Chickens

Gently stuff each cut in your chicken breasts with generous spoonfuls of your jalapeño mixture. Don’t be shy—this is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Air Fry Like a Pro

Lightly spray each stuffed chicken breast with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Place them in your air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 25-30 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve with Style

Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into them. Transfer to plates and top with freshly chopped cilantro for that gorgeous finishing touch!

And there you have it—Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken that’s sure to steal hearts (and stomachs) everywhere! Whether it’s game night or just another Tuesday evening at home, this recipe brings flavor-packed joy to every occasion. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your air fryer while you prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken into hasselback cuts, season generously, stuff with cream cheese and jalapenos, then place it in the air fryer to cook until golden brown and juicy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out jalapenos for banana peppers if you prefer milder heat. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or add crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back into the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes to regain its crispy texture.

Sometimes I whip up this Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken when friends come over, and their reactions are priceless. Watching their eyes widen as they take that first bite is an unforgettable joy!

FAQs

What is Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken?

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken combines juicy chicken breasts with the classic flavors of jalapeno poppers. The chicken is sliced in a hasselback style, allowing for maximum flavor infusion. It’s filled with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos, then air-fried to perfection. flavorful chicken stir fry This dish offers a deliciously crispy exterior while remaining tender and flavorful inside, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

How do I make Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken?

To make Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken, start by preheating your air fryer. Slice the chicken breasts without cutting all the way through, then stuff them with a mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and jalapenos. Season the outside with spices and cook in the air fryer until golden brown and cooked through. This method ensures that each bite bursts with flavor while keeping the chicken moist.

Can I use other cheeses for Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken?

Yes, you can customize the cheese used in Chicken. While cream cheese and cheddar are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder option. Mixing different cheeses can also enhance flavor complexity. Just ensure that any alternative cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture typical of jalapeno poppers.

How long does Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken last?

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper can last in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. Reheat it in the air fryer or microwave to maintain its texture and flavor before serving again. For longer storage, consider freezing it; however, be aware that this may alter the texture slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Conclusion

In summary, Hasselback Chicken is a tasty twist on traditional chicken dishes. It features juicy chicken stuffed with cream cheese and jalapenos, offering a delightful blend of flavors with every bite. The air fryer method ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside. delicious garlic butter rolls Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe any time!

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Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken

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• Author: Liora
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 3

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Description

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a spicy jalapeño and creamy cheese filling. Cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, this recipe delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delightful balance of smoky, savory, and creamy in this easy-to-make dish that will leave everyone wanting more.

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup crispy bacon bits
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Cooking spray
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice each chicken breast into hasselback cuts without cutting all the way through.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, garlic powder, paprika, and bacon bits until well combined.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
5. Lightly spray the stuffed chicken with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving topped with chopped cilantro.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast (200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 110mg