Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Dive into the delicious world of Mexican cuisine with our mouthwatering Ninja Foodi Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken! This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy filling and a kick of jalapeno heat, creating a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this dish is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll wonder how something so flavorful can be so easy to make. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your cooking game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 jalapenos (halved and seeded)
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by creating a deep pocket on one side using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Carefully stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed inside the pocket.
- Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes to reduce heat if desired.
- Place a jalapeno half on top of each stuffed chicken breast, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Ninja Foodi air crisp function to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air crisp basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air crisp basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like Mexican rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier stuffing and even cooking. Make sure they are of similar size for uniform cooking.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, be sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For those who love heat, leave some seeds in for an extra kick!
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the cheese filling! Adding shredded cheddar or pepper jack can give your dish an extra layer of flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When placing the stuffed chicken in the Ninja Foodi, ensure they have enough space to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your stuffed chicken with sides like Mexican rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 326kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
