Description
This Keto Cheesy Chicken recipe is a delicious and low-carb meal perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, mayonnaise, and finely chopped broccoli, then air fried to golden perfection. The result is a juicy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (each over 8 oz)
Cheese Mixture
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup raw broccoli, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, crushed garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add broccoli: Finely chop the raw broccoli into very small pieces and fold it into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Place raw chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, score the top of each chicken breast in a crosshatch or diamond pattern, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will help the cheese mixture penetrate the chicken.
- Stuff the chicken: Divide the cheese and broccoli mixture evenly and spread it onto the scored chicken breasts, pressing some of the mixture into the crevices to maximize flavor.
- Air fry the chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place the stuffed chicken breasts gently inside the basket. Set the air fryer to 370°F and cook for 15 minutes. The chicken is done when the cheese topping is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked.
- Nonstick spray in the air fryer basket prevents sticking and makes cleaning easier.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with vegan alternatives, though this will affect flavor and texture.
- This recipe makes 4 servings from two large chicken breasts.
Keywords: keto chicken, cheesy chicken, air fryer chicken, low carb dinner, keto recipe, cheesy stuffed chicken