Zesty Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken Recipe

Crispy, cheesy jalapeño popper hasselback chicken dances with excitement in this game-changing recipe that’ll make your taste buds leap with joy.

Layers of melted cream cheese and crisp bacon weave through tender chicken breasts, creating a flavor explosion.

Slicing the chicken in signature hasselback style allows each crevice to become a delectable pocket of spicy, creamy goodness.

Sharp jalapeños bring a zesty kick that cuts through rich, melted cheese.

Air frying transforms this dish into a perfectly golden, crunchy masterpiece that takes minimal effort.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing sensation.

One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this irresistible culinary creation that brings restaurant-quality magic right to your kitchen.

Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken in the Air Fryer

• Packed with creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and crispy bacon, this chicken recipe delivers an epic taste experience that'll make taste buds dance with excitement.
• Enjoy a protein-packed meal that's keto-friendly and satisfying, offering a guilt-free option for health-conscious food lovers who don't want to compromise on flavor.
• Easily adjust the spice level by removing jalapeno seeds or adding more, making it adaptable for various heat preferences and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken

• Chicken Breast: Lean protein base for the recipe, choose fresh and plump breasts for best results.

• Cream Cheese, Shredded Cheddar: Creamy and tangy base for the stuffing, full-fat versions provide richer flavor.
• Jalapenos: Adds spicy kick and fresh pepper flavor, choose fresh and adjust quantity for heat preference.
• Bacon: Provides smoky and salty dimension, crispy crumbled bacon works best.

• Olive Oil: Helps distribute seasoning and promotes even browning, use extra virgin for best flavor.
• Smoked Paprika, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Builds complex savory flavor profile, check freshness of spices.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall taste, use kosher or sea salt for better seasoning.

• Green Onions, Chives: Fresh herbal topping for brightness, finely chopped for best presentation.
• Sour Cream, Guacamole: Optional creamy accompaniments that complement spicy chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jalapeno Popper Chicken

• How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Avoid overstuffing the cuts and ensure the cheese mixture is thick. Press the filling gently into the slits and don’t add too much liquid to the mixture. The cream cheese helps bind the filling and keeps it in place during air frying.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate them before cooking. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before air frying to help them cook more evenly.

• What if I want a milder version without too much heat?

Remove the jalapeno seeds and membranes before chopping, which significantly reduces the spiciness. You can also reduce the amount of jalapenos or substitute with mild green chiles for a less spicy version.

• Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly. The chicken, cheese, and bacon are all keto-approved ingredients. Just be careful with the portion sizes and ensure you’re using full-fat cream cheese and cheddar.

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Chicken in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Whip Up Creamy Filling

• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar
• Chopped jalapenos
• Crumbled bacon
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend everything until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Create Hasselback Magic

Select a sharp knife and carefully slice horizontal cuts across the chicken breast.

Cut about 1 cm apart, stopping just short of slicing completely through.

Aim to create beautiful, connected slits along the top.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.

• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Massage the seasonings into every single slit for maximum flavor explosion.

Step 4: Load Up with Cheesy Goodness

Generously spoon the jalapeno cheese mixture into each cut.

Press gently to ensure every slice is packed with filling.

Step 5: Fire Up the Air Fryer

Warm the air fryer to 200C for about 3 minutes.

Lightly coat the basket with non-stick spray.

Step 6: Cook to Perfection

Arrange stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer.

Air fry for 15-18 minutes.

Check that chicken reaches 75C internal temperature.

Look for golden, bubbly cheese on top.

Step 7: Final Flourish

Sprinkle chopped green onions or chives over the chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.

Add a side of guacamole or sour cream for extra zesty enjoyment.

Tips to Balance Creamy and Spicy in This Chicken

• Optimize Cheese Melting: Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier mixing and more even distribution throughout the chicken cuts.
• Spice Control: Remove jalapeno seeds for milder heat or keep them for extra spiciness, depending on your heat tolerance.
• Prevent Burning: Cover the chicken with aluminum foil if the top starts browning too quickly during air frying to ensure even cooking.
• Ensure Juicy Chicken: Don't overcook the chicken- use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature and remove precisely at 75C (165F) to maintain moisture.
• Customize Protein Options: Swap chicken breasts with turkey breasts or thick-cut pork chops for similar cooking method and flavor profile.

How to Keep Jalapeno Popper Chicken Fresh

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent bacteria growth.
• Warm chicken at 160C (320F) for 4-5 minutes until heated through. This method helps restore the crispy exterior and keeps the chicken juicy.
• If in a hurry, reheat in microwave for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out and maintain tender texture.
• Always check internal temperature reaches 74C (165F) before consuming reheated chicken to ensure food safety and eliminate potential bacteria.

What Goes Well with Jalapeno Popper Chicken

• Blend the spicy jalapeño kick of the chicken with a classic margarita featuring fresh lime juice, tequila, and a salted rim for a perfect flavor balance.
• Create a crisp, tangy coleslaw with cilantro, lime, and a touch of jalapeño to echo the dish's bold flavors and provide a refreshing crunch.
• Whip up a light, cooling cucumber salsa with red onions, lime, and fresh herbs to cut through the rich, cheesy chicken and provide a bright counterpoint.
• Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with bright acidity to cleanse the palate and complement the dish's spicy, creamy profile.

Spicy Chicken Variations That Work Well

• Low-Carb Zest: Replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a lighter version, ensuring the same flavor profile while reducing calories.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream or dairy-free alternative cheese, using nutritional yeast for added cheesy flavor and keeping the spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms or thick-cut tofu, maintaining the hasselback technique and jalapeno popper filling for a plant-based alternative.
• Keto-Friendly Fix: Use full-fat cream cheese, add extra sharp cheddar, and ensure zero-carb seasonings to make this recipe compliant with ketogenic dietary requirements.

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Hasselback Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy meets creamy in this mouthwatering air fryer jalapeño popper hasselback chicken recipe that combines bold flavors and crispy textures. Cheesy, zesty, and perfectly golden, this dish promises a delightful culinary adventure you’ll want to savor again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Poultry:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese and Stuffing Ingredients:

• 120 g (4 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
• 50 g (¼ cup) cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• 2 fresh jalapenos, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Create a creamy, zesty filling by blending cream cheese, cheddar, diced jalapenos, crispy bacon bits, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until uniformly incorporated.
2. Select plump chicken breasts and carefully slice horizontal cuts across the top, stopping just short of completely separating the sections to maintain structural integrity.
3. Massage the chicken with olive oil, then generously season with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring the spices penetrate the intricate cut patterns.
4. Delicately spoon the jalapeno-cheese mixture into each precise slit, gently pressing to fill every crevice with the decadent filling.
5. Activate the air fryer and heat to 200C, allowing it to reach optimal temperature for even cooking.
6. Coat the air fryer basket with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and carefully arrange the stuffed chicken breasts in a single layer.
7. Cook for 15-18 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75C and the cheese turns golden and effervescent.
8. Finish by garnishing with fresh chopped green onions or chives for a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
9. Complement the dish with a crisp salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or cauliflower rice, and offer guacamole or sour cream as optional indulgent accompaniments.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by removing jalapeno seeds for milder flavor or adding extra chopped peppers for spice enthusiasts.
• Ensure chicken is evenly cut using a sharp knife and wooden spoon trick to prevent accidentally slicing through completely.
• Swap ingredients for dietary needs like using turkey bacon for lower fat, plant-based cream cheese for dairy-free, or Greek yogurt for lighter filling.
• Prevent cheese from leaking by slightly chilling the filling mixture before stuffing and not overfilling the chicken breast cuts.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 465
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 754 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg