This air fryer pesto chicken is flavor-packed, super easy, and ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
4Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 6 oz each)
1/3cupBasil Pesto
1/2cupShredded Mozzarella Cheese
2tbspSun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped)
1tbspOlive Oil
1/2tspSalt
1/4tspBlack Pepper
1/2tspGarlic Powder
Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
If the chicken breasts are very thick or uneven, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even 3/4-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly so you get juicy results throughout.
Rub each chicken breast lightly with olive oil on both sides, then season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread a generous tablespoon of basil pesto evenly over the top of each seasoned chicken breast, covering the entire surface.
Preheat the air fryer to 375F. Place the chicken breasts pesto-side up in the basket in a single layer with a bit of space between them.
Air fry for 10 minutes. Open the air fryer and top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese and a scattering of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Air fry for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.