Air Fryer Chicken Breast with Spinach and Peppers

This air fryer chicken breast with spinach and peppers is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Juicy chicken fillets are coated in a seasoned tomato and olive oil mixture, filled with sautéed spinach and bell peppers, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a delicious option for a family dinner, and you can also make it in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer.

You can also prepare this recipe without an air fryer.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in an oven-safe baking dish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Add the cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Don’t cut all the way through: Make shallow cuts to create pockets for the spinach filling while keeping the chicken breasts intact.
- Drain excess liquid: Spinach releases water as it cooks. Let any excess liquid evaporate before filling the chicken.
- Check doneness: The thickest part of the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
- Choose your cheese: Cheddar works beautifully, but mozzarella or Gouda are also good alternatives.

Directions

Step 1

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan. Add the chopped spinach and bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables soften and the spinach wilts.

Step 2

Add the smoked sweet paprika, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine, then remove the pan from the heat.

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, tomato paste, garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix until smooth.

Step 4

Using a sharp knife, make cuts approximately 1 cm deep across the surface of each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 5

Brush the chicken breasts with the prepared tomato and olive oil mixture. Fill the cuts with the sautéed spinach and pepper mixture.

Step 6

Arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7

About 5 minutes before the end of cooking, place one slice of cheddar cheese on each chicken breast. Continue cooking until the cheese melts and the chicken is done. Serve warm and enjoy!