Here’s a flavor-packed, juicy Air Fryer Caprese Chicken with Pesto, Tomato, and Cheese recipe that’s quick, healthy, and elegant enough for dinner guests.
Air Fryer Caprese Chicken with Pesto, Tomato & Cheese
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (optional for extra juiciness)
- 3–4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1–2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 4–6 slices fresh mozzarella (or shredded mozzarella if preferred)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)
- Balsamic glaze (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Pound slightly to even thickness for even cooking.
- Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place chicken in the basket in a single layer.
- Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Add Toppings
- After the first cook time, spread 1–1.5 tbsp pesto over each chicken breast.
- Layer with tomato slices and mozzarella cheese.
- Finish Cooking
- Return to air fryer and cook for 3–4 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze if desired.
Tips
- If using thicker chicken, increase the first cooking stage by 2–3 minutes before adding toppings.
- For a stronger flavor, marinate chicken in pesto for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes can be halved and used instead of slices for a sweeter pop.
