Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon (cooked until slightly crispy)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeños (seeded and finely diced)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Using a sharp knife, carefully make hasselback cuts into each breast, spacing them about ½ inch apart without cutting all the way through.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, and a pinch of salt. Spoon the mixture generously into the slits of each chicken breast. Wrap each breast with two slices of cooked bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush the chicken lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and onion powder. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces for proper airflow. Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness and extra flair.
Notes
- For milder heat, substitute jalapeños with bell peppers or omit seeds entirely.
- Vegan alternative: Use plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free cheese, and meatless bacon substitutes.
- To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
- Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied melting textures.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg