Air fryer pesto chicken is a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, herby pesto sauce, cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
The result is juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful exterior. Adding cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the dish with a burst of sweetness and a savory finish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works so well because the air fryer cooks the chicken quickly and evenly, ensuring it stays juicy on the inside while developing a nice, crisp exterior. The pesto sauce infuses the chicken with a deep, herbaceous flavor that’s both rich and fresh. The addition of Parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking adds a delightful savory note that complements the pesto perfectly.
You should make this recipe because it's incredibly easy and versatile. It requires minimal ingredients and prep time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Plus, it's a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The air fryer method reduces the need for excessive oil, resulting in a lighter dish that’s still satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it with a salad, pasta, or vegetables, this pesto chicken is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Chicken Breasts - Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer. Substitute: Chicken thighs or turkey breasts.
Pesto Sauce - Adds a rich, herby flavor to the chicken. Substitute: Store-bought or homemade pesto.
Olive Oil - Helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. Substitute: Avocado oil or melted butter.
Parmesan Cheese - Sprinkled on top for a savory, cheesy finish. Substitute: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes - Adds a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory chicken. Substitute: Grape tomatoes or sliced regular tomatoes.
Tips
- Marinate the chicken in pesto for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
How to Serve
Air fryer pesto chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Its herby, cheesy coating and juicy tomatoes make it a delightful main course for any meal. Serve it hot straight from the air fryer, and pair it with sides that complement its rich flavors.
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh, healthy salad.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple pasta dish for a complete dinner.
- Slice and use in sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings for a quick and tasty lunch.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ยฝ cup pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ยผ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, coat the chicken breasts with pesto sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- After 10 minutes, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the basket.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.