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Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Thighs

Name: Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces bone-in chicken thighs (or boneless chicken thighs); 1 cup pesto sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional); 2 teaspoons Parmesan cheese (optional, add to the pesto sauce.); 1 teaspoon basil (for serving)

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: August 10, 2020

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This air fryer pesto chicken thighs recipe is a simple yet flavorful dinner idea! Ready in just 25 minutes, these juicy chicken thighs make for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.

If you have been looking for something to do with chicken thighs, this recipe will work on several levels. And it’s one of my go-to meals after a long day at work or running around with the kids.

It is one of those perfect midweek meals, and the Air Fryer will crisp your chicken thighs to perfection.

Serve with either a garden salad or a plate of roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious meal! This chicken dish goes with almost anything you can serve with it.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER POLLO ASADO CHICKEN, AIR FRYER SESAME CHICKEN, AIR FRYER COPYCAT KFC FRIED CHICKEN, and AIR FRYER CRISPY CHICKEN THIGHS.

Why You Will Love Air-Fried Pesto Chicken Thighs

Quick and Easy: They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Juicy and Tender: The air fryer locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken thighs stay juicy and tender.
Packed with Flavor: The pesto adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Healthy Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, making this a healthier choice.
Versatile: These chicken thighs can be paired with a variety of sides, such as salads, vegetables, or pasta.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer minimizes mess, making cleanup a breeze.
Kid-Friendly: The delicious, familiar flavors make this a dish that kids will love.
Great for Meal Prep: These chicken thighs can be made ahead and reheated, making them ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Thighs

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need to make pesto chicken thighs in air fryer.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They cook evenly in the air fryer and stay juicy and flavorful.
Pesto Sauce: Pesto adds a vibrant, herbaceous flavor to the chicken. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto, depending on your preference.
Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil helps to coat the chicken thighs, ensuring they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and pesto.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds an extra layer of savory flavor, complementing the pesto perfectly.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the pesto.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top for an extra burst of umami and a slightly crispy texture.
Fresh Basil (optional): Fresh basil leaves can be added as a garnish to enhance the herbaceous flavor and add a pop of color.

How To Make Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Thighs

Making these air fryer pesto chicken thighs is incredibly easy and involves just a few simple steps.

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

In a small bowl (large enough for the chicken), scoop the pesto into it, add the olive oil, and place the chicken thighs.

Place the chicken thighs into the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 380 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 10 minutes, and then flip and air fry for another 7-8 minutes, until the internal temperature reads 165 degrees F.

Tips For Making Air Fryer Chicken Pesto Thighs

Pat Dry for Crispiness: Before seasoning, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the pesto and seasoning stick better and results in a crispier exterior.
Use Homemade Pesto: For the freshest flavor, consider making your own pesto. Homemade pesto often has a more vibrant taste compared to store-bought versions.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken thighs in the pesto mixture for 1-2 hours. This will deepen the flavor and make the chicken even more delicious.
Avoid Overcrowding: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Flip Halfway Through: To ensure even cooking and browning on both sides, flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Let it Rest: After air frying, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
Garnish Smartly: For added flavor and presentation, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves over the cooked chicken thighs.
Experiment with Sides: Pair the pesto chicken thighs with various sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta. This adds variety and complements the flavors of the dish.
Reheat Properly: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will help retain their crispiness, unlike microwaving which can make them soggy.
Lemon Zest for Extra Brightness: For an extra burst of freshness, add a bit of lemon zest along with the lemon juice after cooking. This enhances the flavor profile with a zesty kick.

Faq’s Air-Fried Pesto Chicken Thighs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may require a slightly shorter cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How long should I marinate the chicken? For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for 1-2 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add some flavor.

What if I don’t have pesto? You can make a simple homemade pesto using fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil. Alternatively, use a store-bought pesto for convenience.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Yes, preheating the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket? Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or use perforated parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking and better flavor absorption from the pesto.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy? Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning, avoid overcrowding the basket, and lightly spray the thighs with cooking oil before air frying.

What sides go well with pesto chicken thighs? Popular sides include roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, pasta, quinoa, or garlic bread. These sides complement the flavors of the pesto chicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cooked chicken thighs can also be reheated in the air fryer.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to retain crispiness.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? Yes, use a dairy-free pesto or make your own by substituting the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.

Can I add vegetables to cook with the chicken? Yes, you can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to the air fryer basket. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes and have enough space for air circulation.

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