Are you searching for a quick and healthy meal idea? Look no further than this mouthwatering air fryer chicken and broccoli recipe.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a nutritious and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
Prepare Tender Chicken Breast First, start by slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
This ensures even cooking and tender results.
Marinate with Flavorful Seasonings Next, marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt,
and pepper. Allow the chicken to soak up the delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even better, marinate it overnight in the
refrigerator.
Air Fry to Perfection Once marinated, place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they are arranged in a single layer for
PrintDelicious Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Recipe for Healthy Meals
Ingredients
- 1 pound (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs , cut into 1″ bite sized pieces
- 1/2 pound (227 g) broccoli , cut into bite sized pieces (about 2 cups)
- salt , to taste
- black pepper , to taste
- serve with lemon wedges
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl whisk together the oil, garlic or garlic powder, soy sauce, sesame seed oil, rice vinegar, and optional hot sauce.
- For crispy charred broccoli: Add the chicken and broccoli into the bowl with the marinade. Toss ingredients together to evenly coat with the marinade. Make sure to mix well so the chicken and broccoli can absorb the marinade. There shouldn’t be much of the sauce left in the bottom of the bowl.
- Place the marinated chicken & veggies into the air fryer basket.
- Air Fry at 380°F/193°C for 16-20 minutes, shaking and gently tossing a couple times while cooking. Make sure to toss well so that everything cooks evenly.
- Check the chicken to make sure it is cooked through (time will depend on how big you cut the pieces). If needed, cook for additional 2-5 minutes.
- Add additional salt and pepper, to taste. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and serve warm.
Notes
- 3 Tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic , minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce , or to taste (use Tamari for Gluten Free)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame seed oil
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) rice vinegar (use distilled white vinegar for Gluten Free)
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) hot sauce (optional)
Nutrition
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 455mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 73mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
even cooking. Cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Add Nutrient-Rich Broccoli While the chicken is cooking, prepare the broccoli by cutting it into florets. Toss the broccoli with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Combine Chicken and Broccoli Once the chicken is done, add the seasoned broccoli to the air fryer basket with the chicken. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly charred.
Serve and Enjoy! Remove the chicken and broccoli from the air fryer and serve hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious meal on its own or pair it with your favorite side dishes.
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
High in Protein Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Pairing it with broccoli adds extra protein and essential nutrients, making this dish a wholesome meal option.
Low in Calories and Fat By using an air fryer instead of traditional frying methods, you can enjoy the crispy texture of the chicken without excess oil and calories. Plus, broccoli is naturally low in calories and fat, making this dish a great choice for those watching their waistline.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals Both chicken and broccoli are rich in vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. Chicken is a good source of B vitamins, zinc, and iron, while broccoli is loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Variations and Tips
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Experiment with different seasonings such as Italian seasoning, curry powder, or lemon pepper for a unique flavor profile.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step and simply season the chicken with salt and pepper before air frying.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
Conclusion
This air fryer chicken and broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious and easy to make. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome dish that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals.