Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan! The first time I made it, I was honestly blown away by how easy and absolutely delicious it turned out. I mean, who doesn’t love crispy, golden chicken filled with gooey mozzarella and topped with a rich marinara sauce? It’s like the ultimate comfort food but way easier than you’d think. Plus, using the air fryer means you get that perfect crunch without all the extra oil! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming about it and making it over and over again!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s get into the good stuff! Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of our dish! Choose ones that are about the same thickness for even cooking.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty goodness is what makes this dish so irresistible. Feel free to use fresh mozzarella for an even creamier texture!
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds that salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Go for your favorite store-bought brand, or if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own! Either way, it brings everything together.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a delightful crunch. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning! Don’t skip this step; it really enhances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the breadcrumbs stick and gives a nice golden color during cooking.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a dinner that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare the Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the deliciousness! Preparing this air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll be on your way to a meal that’s not just tasty but also healthy, thanks to the air frying method!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is super important for getting that perfect crispy chicken!
- Next, take each chicken breast and butterfly it. To do this, simply place your hand on top of the chicken breast and carefully slice it horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want to create a pocket for all that gooey cheese!
- Now, let’s stuff those pockets! Take a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and stuff it into each chicken breast. Don’t be shy; the more, the merrier!
- Once all your chicken breasts are stuffed, season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This is where you’re going to amp up the flavor, so make sure to sprinkle it evenly over each piece.
- Now, it’s time to give your chicken a nice coating. Dip each stuffed chicken breast in olive oil, making sure it’s fully coated. This will help the breadcrumbs stick on beautifully!
- Next, roll the chicken in breadcrumbs until they’re fully covered. This is what’s going to give your chicken that delightful crunch, so don’t skip this step!
- Carefully place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for even cooking.
- Cook your chicken for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is the magic number!
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, spoon marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. This is where the magic happens! The cheese will melt and create a delicious topping.
- Let it cook for those last few minutes until the cheese is nice and bubbly.
And voilà! You’ve just created a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen with minimal fuss. Serve it up and get ready for the compliments!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for weeknight dinners!
- Deliciously crispy on the outside, with gooey mozzarella on the inside.
- A healthier twist on classic chicken parmesan, thanks to the air fryer.
- Packed with flavor from Italian seasoning and rich marinara sauce.
- Versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta, salad, or veggies.
- Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for everyday cooking.
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow home chefs, here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Cooking Time Adjustments: Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. For thicker pieces, you might need an extra 5 minutes or so. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is your best friend here!
- Fresh vs. Shredded Cheese: If you want that extra creaminess, go for fresh mozzarella instead of shredded. It melts beautifully and gives you that gooey texture we all crave!
- Breadcrumb Choices: Panko breadcrumbs are the way to go if you want extra crunch. They’re lighter and will give your chicken that beautiful golden crust. But regular breadcrumbs work just fine too!
- Marinara Sauce: Feel free to spice up your marinara sauce by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh basil. It’s a simple way to elevate the flavor!
- Freezing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will, but just in case!), you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the air fryer for a quick meal!
- Serving Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your sides! This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at the dinner table! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan is not just tasty but also packs a good punch in the health department. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (that’s one chicken breast):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But overall, you’re looking at a hearty meal that won’t break the calorie bank—perfect for keeping things balanced while indulging in something delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about making this air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries along with my answers to help you nail this recipe:
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting the recipe. Cooking from frozen isn’t recommended since it can throw off the cooking time and make it tricky to achieve that perfect crispiness.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you’re not a mozzarella fan (though who isn’t?), you can use provolone or even a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly!
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to hit 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink inside!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep everything in advance! Just stuff and coat the chicken, then store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. When you’re ready, pop it in the air fryer, and you’re set!
What sides pair well with this dish?
This chicken is so versatile! It goes great with a simple side salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a nice pasta dish. You can’t go wrong with garlic bread either—it’s the perfect way to soak up that marinara sauce!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan, and there are some leftovers (if you’re lucky enough!). Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy that flavor-packed goodness later!
First, let the chicken cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your leftovers soggy. Once cooled, you can wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll be good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to keep that crispy texture as intact as possible!
If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you know what you’ve got!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the air fryer! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore that delightful crunch you had when it was first cooked. You can also use the oven if you prefer—just pop them in at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes.
And there you go! You’re all set to savor every last bite of your amazing creation, even on busy days!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about what to pair with this incredible air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan to create a complete and satisfying meal! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Pasta: A simple spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic or a classic marinara sauce is a match made in heaven with this chicken!
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus roasted with olive oil and herbs for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread to soak up any leftover marinara sauce. Trust me, it’s a must!
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your chicken over cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to keep things light while still filling!
Mix and match these sides for a delightful dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy!
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Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Recipe Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan recipe that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly each chicken breast to create a pocket.
- Stuff each pocket with mozzarella cheese.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Dip the stuffed chicken in olive oil and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- In the last 5 minutes, spoon marinara sauce over the chicken and top with Parmesan cheese.
- Cook until the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Serve with pasta or a salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken parmesan recipe
