Air Fryer Red Pesto, Pepperoni & Cheese Stuffed Chicken Fillets

Juicy chicken fillets stuffed with flavorful red pesto, pepperoni, and melted cheese, then air-fried until perfectly golden. This easy recipe delivers a crispy exterior and a rich, cheesy center while using just a handful of ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you want a satisfying homemade meal.

Chicken is naturally rich in protein, making this recipe a delicious way to enjoy a filling, protein-packed dinner. If you’re interested in building balanced, satisfying meals, you can also read our article about protein, carbohydrates, and the balance of satisfying meals.

If you enjoy flavorful chicken recipes, be sure to try our Chicken Karahi for a bold, aromatic flavor or our Balsamic Chicken for another easy and delicious dinner option. Looking for a hearty side? Pair this stuffed chicken with our Vegetable Pulao or Saffron Arborio rice to complete the meal. Serve these stuffed chicken fillets with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal that’s simple enough for weekdays yet impressive enough to serve the guests

Air Fryer Red Pesto & Pepperoni Stuffed Chicken Fillet

Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with garlic, red pesto, turkey pepperoni, and melted mozzarella cheese, then seasoned and air-fried until golden and perfectly cooked. This easy high-protein dinner is ready in about 17 minutes and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Air-Fry Time 17 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Course main course

Cuisine American

Servings 2

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 2 chicken breasts about 450 g
• 2 tsp ginger garlic paste
• 2 tbsp red pesto
• 8 slices turkey pepperoni
• 70 –80 g mozzarella cheese sliced
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

Instructions

 

• Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
• Add 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste inside each chicken breast and spread evenly.
• Spoon 1 tablespoon of red pesto into each pocket and spread over the inside.
• Layer 4 slices of turkey pepperoni inside each chicken breast.
• Add sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni.
• Fold the chicken closed, pressing gently to keep the filling inside.
• Drizzle lemon juice over both chicken breasts.
• Brush with extra virgin olive oil.
• Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning.
• Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 17 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
• Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing.
• Serve hot with vegetables, salad, or your favorite side dish.
Secure the chicken with toothpicks if needed.

Notes

Avoid overfilling the chicken to prevent the cheese from leaking out.

Chicken breasts vary in thickness, so cooking time may need slight adjustment.

Pair with steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.