I’ve always loved the idea of transforming simple chicken into something extraordinary, and stuffed chicken thighs are one of my favorite ways to do just that. The juiciness of the thigh meat combined with a flavorful filling makes every bite feel indulgent without being overly complicated. Using an air fryer has completely changed the game for me—it crisps up the outside beautifully while keeping the filling perfectly tender and moist.
What makes this recipe so special is how versatile it is. I can switch up the stuffing depending on what I have in my fridge—cheese, herbs, vegetables, or even a touch of spice—and it never fails to impress. The convenience of the air fryer means I get all that flavor in a fraction of the time it would take to bake in the oven, and cleanup is a breeze. It’s a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet, and I absolutely love serving it to family or guests.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless thighs for the best results. They are naturally juicy and flavorful, which makes them perfect for stuffing. The tender meat easily holds the filling without falling apart during cooking.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy richness to the filling, balancing out the savory chicken. Its smooth texture melts slightly inside the thigh, creating a luscious interior.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen, spinach gives a bright, slightly earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese. It also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the filling with aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Roasting it slightly in the air fryer intensifies its sweetness and depth.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melty mozzarella adds a stretchy, gooey texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling and tender chicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nutty, savory kick and a golden finish when cooked. A little goes a long way in elevating the flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the filling. They enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients and balance the richness.
Paprika: Sprinkled on the outside of the thighs, paprika gives a beautiful color and a subtle smoky flavor that makes the dish even more appetizing.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
How to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Thighs
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, spinach, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed and creamy.
Stuff the Chicken
Lay the chicken thighs flat and carefully spoon the filling onto the center of each piece. Fold or roll the chicken around the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed to keep everything inside.
Season the Chicken
Sprinkle paprika, additional salt, and pepper over the outside of the stuffed chicken thighs to add flavor and color.
Air Fry
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
Serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices stay locked in and the filling remains creamy. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling that’s easier to spread.
- Don’t overstuff the chicken; a moderate amount of filling keeps the thighs intact while cooking.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like basil or thyme to customize the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it into the filling.
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Bone-in thighs can work, but they may require longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Secure the edges with toothpicks and avoid overfilling. Cooking at the right temperature also helps keep everything inside.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. Just add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.