Preparing the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place each breast on a cutting board and make slits across the top of each breast, about 3/4 of the way through, ensuring not to cut all the way down. The slits should be about 1/2 inch apart.
- Season: Brush each chicken breast with olive oil. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl, and sprinkle this mixture over and inside the slits of the chicken.
Stuffing:
- Stuff the Chicken: Carefully stuff the spinach leaves, sun-dried tomatoes, and slices of mozzarella cheese into the slits. The idea is to evenly distribute the ingredients throughout the slits for a balanced flavor and attractive presentation.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the top of each chicken breast with grated Parmesan cheese, aiming to get some on the chicken as well as in the slits.
Air Frying:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (approximately 360°F). If your air fryer requires preheating, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Cook: Place the prepared chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for proper air circulation. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Hasselback Chicken Breast is best served hot, accompanied by a side of roasted vegetables, a light salad, or your favorite grain. The dish is visually impressive, making it perfect for a special occasion or a fancy weeknight dinner.
Tips for Success:
- Even Slits: Use a sharp knife to make even, parallel slits in the chicken breast. This not only ensures an attractive presentation but also allows for even cooking.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into the slits, overstuffing can cause the ingredients to fall out during cooking. Aim for a balance where the fillings enhance rather than overwhelm the chicken.
- Check for Doneness: Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken is the best way to ensure it’s fully cooked without being overdone.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful breast.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Hasselback Chicken Breast combines the ease of air frying with the sophistication of Hasselback preparation. It’s a dish that promises not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate, with its intricate flavors and textures. By following this detailed recipe, you’ll be able to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious and healthy meal that elevates the humble chicken breast to new culinary heights.