Description
A quick and healthy 5-ingredient dinner featuring juicy air-fried chicken breasts topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, cherry tomatoes, and a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (balls)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry. Place between plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Rub mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from air fryer. Place fresh mozzarella chunks on top of each breast, then scatter halved cherry tomatoes over the cheese.
- Return to air fryer and cook for 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from air fryer. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pounding the chicken to even thickness is crucial for juicy results. Use fresh mozzarella, not pre-shredded, for better melting. Add basil at the very end to prevent burning. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: air fryer, chicken caprese, balsamic glaze, healthy dinner, quick meals, 5 ingredient recipes, gluten-free