Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Butterfly the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, making sure not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold the filling.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Season both the outside and inside of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
- Add the Filling: Stuff each chicken breast with 2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella, a few cherry tomato halves, and several basil leaves. Press the filling down gently to ensure it stays inside the pocket.
- Secure the Chicken: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts, preventing the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with olive oil.
- Cook: Air fry the chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices and makes the chicken more flavorful.
- Garnish: Drizzle the chicken breasts with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Caprese stuffed chicken breasts hot, with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Uniform Thickness: Make sure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Secure Filling: Use toothpicks to secure the edges of the chicken breasts to prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, resulting in a crispy exterior.
Variations and Additions
- Prosciutto: Add a slice of prosciutto inside each chicken breast for an extra layer of flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
- Pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto inside the chicken breast before adding the other fillings for an herby twist.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer Caprese stuffed chicken breast is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the freshness of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a sophisticated meal. The air fryer ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Enjoy this delightful dish and happy cooking!