This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli dish is so quick and tasty! Juicy chicken pieces and fresh broccoli florets come together with minimal fuss, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
The best part? It’s healthy and you don’t have to stand over the stove. I love how crispy the broccoli gets—it’s like a veggie party! 🎉 Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the main protein in the dish. I prefer using skinless chicken breast for its lean quality. If you want a juicier result, consider thighs. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add nutritional value and crunch. If you don’t have broccoli, feel free to swap in green beans, asparagus, or cauliflower. I find that these veggies work well with the seasonings too.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and helps the chicken brown. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or any vegetable oil will work just fine. I like to use extra virgin for its flavor, but regular olive oil is perfectly acceptable.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives amazing flavor. If you’re in a hurry, pre-minced garlic can save time. However, I always recommend using fresh whenever possible for the best taste.
Soy Sauce: It adds saltiness and umami. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari as a substitute, or coconut aminos if you want a soy-free option. I enjoy the richer taste of low-sodium soy sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken and Broccoli Cook Evenly in the Air Fryer?
Getting even cooking in the air fryer is key for a great dish. Here’s how to make sure everything cooks perfectly:
- Cut chicken into similar-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Aim for bite-size, about 1-inch cubes.
- Spread the chicken and broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer. This allows hot air to circulate evenly.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This mixes everything up and helps prevent any sticking.
- Check for doneness: The chicken should register 165°F (74°C) internally. If not, give it a couple more minutes.
Following these tips will help make sure your meal turns out deliciously every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Broccoli:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes from start to serving your delicious Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken and broccoli will cook evenly and get that nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, add the chicken pieces along with olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Toss everything together so that the chicken is well coated with the marinade. This step adds a ton of flavor!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the bowl. Toss again to mix the broccoli with the chicken and marinade. This makes sure every bite is delicious!
4. Air Fry the Mixture:
Carefully transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into the air fryer basket. Spread it out in a single layer. This helps with even cooking and ensures everything gets that nice crispiness.
5. Cooking Time:
Cook in the air fryer for about 12-15 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to check on it and make sure everything is cooking evenly. The chicken should turn golden brown and the broccoli should be tender but still have a little crunch.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your chicken and broccoli are fully cooked, take them out of the air fryer. If you’d like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first. You can thaw chicken safely in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, ensure to pat it dry before marinating to help the seasoning stick better.
What If I Don’t Have Broccoli?
No worries! You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or green beans. Just keep the cooking time in check, as softer veggies like zucchini may need less time in the air fryer. Aim for similar sizes so everything cooks evenly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or re-air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help keep the chicken crispy while heating through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to turn up the heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even slicing up some fresh chili peppers to toss in with the chicken and broccoli. For a unique flavor twist, you could also drizzle some sriracha on top before serving!
