Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy, tender chicken pieces and crispy broccoli florets, this dish is seasoned to perfection and cooked in under 20 minutes. The air fryer gives everything a delicious char without the extra oil, making it a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

ingredients

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

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighscooked broccoli floretsolive oilsoy saucesesame oilgarlic powderonion powderpaprika (optional)black pepper and salt

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.

Add the broccoli florets to the same bowl.

Drizzle with olive oil, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Toss everything together until the chicken and broccoli are well coated.

Place the mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is slightly crispy on the edges.

Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve hot, optionally over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2-3 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

Use teriyaki or sweet chili sauce instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.

Add red bell peppers or mushrooms for more variety.

Sprinkle sesame seeds or green onions on top before serving for extra texture and flavor.

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw it and pat it dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.

Can I marinate the chicken in advance?

Absolutely, marinating for a few hours or overnight adds more flavor.

Can I cook the chicken and broccoli separately?

Yes, for maximum crispiness, you can cook them in batches.

Is this meal keto-friendly?

Yes, it is low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet.

What can I serve with this dish?

Rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles pair well with this meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Should I preheat the air fryer?

Preheating ensures even cooking and better texture.

Do I need to flip or shake the basket?

Yes, shaking halfway helps everything cook evenly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier.

Is parchment paper okay in the air fryer?

Yes, if it’s perforated and safe for air fryer use.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious, hassle-free meal that delivers bold flavor and balanced nutrition with minimal prep. It’s perfect for a fast dinner or a healthy lunch, and once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation.

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