Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Healthy: Low in calories and high in protein and fiber.

• Versatile: Customize with your favorite seasonings or sauces.

• Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one air fryer basket.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

3. Prepare the Broccoli: In another bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

5. Add the Broccoli: After 10 minutes, add the seasoned broccoli florets to the basket with the chicken. Continue air frying for an additional 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the broccoli is tender.

6. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately, optionally with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 16–18 minutes

• Total time: 26–28 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for heat.

• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

• Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil and add a drizzle of teriyaki sauce before serving.

• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the seasoning mix.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used; adjust the cooking time as needed.

6. How do I prevent the broccoli from burning?

Ensure the broccoli is tossed with enough oil and not overcrowded in the basket. Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps promote even cooking.

7. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.

8. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or vegetable oil

9. Can I cook the chicken and broccoli separately?

Yes, you can cook them separately if your air fryer has limited space; just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

10. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, ensure it is thawed and well-drained before cooking.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli is a simple, nutritious, and delicious meal that comes together quickly with minimal effort. Its versatility allows for various flavor profiles, making it a go-to option for healthy weeknight dinners. With easy preparation and cleanup, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.