Air Fryer Caprese Chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 6–7 oz each, trimmed)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Caprese Topping

• 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into 4 thick rounds or log slices)
• 2 medium ripe Roma tomatoes (thickly sliced into 8 rounds) or 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves (whole leaves reserved for layering and chiffonade for garnish)
• 3 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade reduction)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

1. Even out the thickness: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Lightly pound the thicker ends with a meat mallet until each piece is an even ¾-inch thickness. This step ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
2. Season generously: Pat chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 2: First Stage Air Frying

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Initial cook: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer, ensuring space between pieces for air circulation. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8 to 9 minutes , flipping once at the 5-minute mark.

Step 3: Layer the Caprese Toppings

1. Assemble the layers: Open the air fryer basket. On top of each chicken breast, layer 2–3 fresh basil leaves, 2 tomato slices, and top with a thick slice of fresh mozzarella cheese.
2. Melt the cheese: Return the basket to the air fryer and cook at 380°F (193°C) for an additional 3 to 4 minutes , or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
3. Verify temperature: Ensure an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C) .

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Rest the meat: Carefully transfer the Caprese chicken breasts to a serving platter. Let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes so the juices redistribute.
2. Final touch: Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze and sprinkle fresh chiffonade-cut basil across the melted cheese right before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 340 kcal — · Protein: 44 g 88% · Fat: 15 g 19% · Carbohydrates: 7 g 3% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 6 g 30% · Fiber: 1 g 4% · Sugar: 5 g — · Sodium: 480 mg 21%