This delicious air fryer chicken pesto recipe uses just 2 ingredients and is ready in under 15 minutes. It’s low carb, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
1Poundchicken breast cutlets (approximately ½" thick)
2-3Tbspprepared pesto(jarred or homemade)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (or the closest setting your air fryer has)
Trim any fat from the chicken, then coat both sides of each chicken breast cutlet with pesto. You can place them in a bowl or bag and toss them if you find that easier
1 Pound chicken breast cutlets, 2-3 Tbsp prepared pesto
Arrange the pesto chicken in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer
Cook on the air fry setting for 6-8 minutes at 375°F, pausing halfway through to flip, until an internal temperature of 165°F is achieved
Serve with your favorite sides!
Notes
I use chicken breast cutlets because they’re quick cooking and stay moist in the air fryer. However, you can use other cuts as well! For full chicken breasts or thighs, increase cooking time to 15-18 minutes, and chicken tenders should take 12-14 minutes
While basil pesto is most traditional, this recipe is equally delicious with tomato or spinach pesto if you’d like a change of pace!
Typically, prepared pesto contains enough salt that you don’t need to add more. However, you may always add additional salt and/or pepper to taste, if desired
The more even your chicken breast slices are, the more evenly they’ll cook. If you have thin and thick pieces, the small parts will be rubbery and overcooked by the time the thick pieces are done
Store leftover pesto chicken covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
To reheat, air fry leftover pesto chicken for 2-3 minutes at 350°F. For full breasts or thighs, you need 5-6 minutes generally
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand of ingredients, any seasonings or sides added, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only