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Juicy chicken pesto air fryer dish served on a plate, garnished with herbs and paired with roasted veggies on the side – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner

Delicious Chicken Pesto Air Fryer Recipe in 20 Minutes – So Simple!

Ifra Shahnawaz
This juicy chicken pesto air fryer recipe is a fast, flavorful dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes! With only boneless chicken and pesto, you’ll get golden, herby chicken that's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it with veggies, pasta, or slice it into wraps and salads!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • airfryer
  • Sharp knife
  • Silicone brush
  • tongs
  • thermometer (optional but recommended)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound in total)
  • ¼ cup pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for cheesy version
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Lemon zest for freshness

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes.
  • Prepare Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally—leave the edges connected so they open like a book. Pound gently to even thickness if needed.
    Chicken breasts being butterflied on a wooden cutting board for chicken pesto air fryer recipe, showing even slicing and clean prep for even cooking
  • Add Pesto: Brush pesto sauce generously over both sides of each chicken piece. Let it marinate for 5–10 minutes while the air fryer preheats.
    Chicken breasts generously brushed with pesto sauce on both sides, ready to cook for a juicy chicken pesto air fryer meal
  • Air Fry: Lay the chicken flat in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s in a single layer.Cook for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check the internal temperature at 15 min — it should reach 165°F.
    Chicken coated with pesto placed inside air fryer basket at 390°F, golden crust starting to form – air fryer pesto chicken cooking process
  • Rest & Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 2–3 minutes before cutting to retain its juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides!
    chicken pesto air fryer

Notes

💡 Notes & Tips

  • Meal Prep Ready: This chicken stores well and reheats perfectly.  
  • Use Chicken Thighs: Swap with boneless thighs for a juicier texture.  
  • Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches for even browning.  
  • Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella in the last 3 minutes for melty goodness.  
  • Make it spicy: Sprinkle red chili flakes into the pesto.  
 
🍽️ Serving Ideas
  • Over pasta with olive oil & Parmesan  
  • In a wrap or sandwich  
  • With roasted carrots & potatoes in air fryer  
  • On top of a fresh green salad  
  • Paired with Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls or Crispy Mushrooms  
 
❄️ Storage & Reheating
  • Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.  
  • Freezer: Wrap individual portions and freeze for 2–3 months.  
  • Reheat:  
    • Air Fryer: 2–3 mins at 400°F  
    • Microwave: 1–1.5 mins (texture will be softer)
Keyword chicken pesto air fryer