Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli: Quick 25-Minute Delight

Name: Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli: Quick 25-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken fillets, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me tell you, air fryer chicken and broccoli is one of my go-to meals when I need something quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious! I can whip this up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to eat something nourishing. The air fryer gives the chicken a delightful crispness while keeping the broccoli bright and tender. Trust me, the combination of juicy chicken and perfectly seasoned broccoli is a winner every time!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or tweak the seasonings to match your mood. Plus, it’s packed with protein and low in calories, making it a guilt-free choice that satisfies your cravings. So, let’s dive into this fabulous recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty air fryer chicken and broccoli dish. I promise, the ingredient list is simple and straightforward!

2 chicken fillets, diced into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen – just make sure they’re nice and bright!
2 tablespoons olive oil, for that perfect coating and flavor
1 teaspoon garlic powder, you can’t go wrong with garlic!
1 teaspoon onion powder, adds a lovely depth
Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!

Feel free to adjust any of these ingredients based on your preferences. I sometimes throw in a little extra garlic powder when I’m feeling adventurous! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Getting your air fryer chicken and broccoli ready is a breeze! I’ll walk you through each step, ensuring you end up with a mouthwatering meal. Just follow along, and don’t worry—this is easier than you think!

Preheating the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheated! You want to set it to 380°F (193°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps your chicken cook evenly and get that tasty crispy exterior. Usually, I let it preheat for about 5 minutes while I prepare the other ingredients. Multitasking is my secret weapon!

Combining Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, toss your diced chicken fillets and broccoli florets with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything gets a nice, even coating—you want every bite bursting with flavor! I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure everything is well combined. Plus, it feels a bit like a cooking adventure!

Cooking Instructions

Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s showtime! Carefully place the chicken and broccoli mixture into the air fryer basket, spreading it out as much as possible for even cooking. Set the timer for 12-15 minutes, and halfway through, remember to give the basket a good shake. This little shake helps everything cook evenly and adds to that delightful crispiness!

Before serving, check the chicken for doneness. It should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you need to, pop it back in for a couple more minutes. Once done, you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutrition in this air fryer chicken and broccoli dish! It’s not just quick and tasty; it’s also packed with goodness. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fiber: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg

These values are estimates, of course, but they give you a good idea of what you’re putting on your plate. With a healthy dose of protein and fiber, this meal is not only satisfying but also great for keeping your energy up throughout the day. Enjoy your guilt-free feast!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your air fryer chicken and broccoli turns out absolutely perfect? Here are some of my top tips that I swear by to elevate this dish to a whole new level!

Watch Your Cooking Times

Cooking times can vary a bit based on the size of your chicken pieces and the type of air fryer you have. If your chicken is cut smaller, it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it! I recommend checking for doneness at around the 10-minute mark to see how it’s doing. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer is your best friend—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Adjust Those Seasonings

Don’t be shy when it comes to seasoning! If you love a bit more flavor, feel free to add extra garlic or onion powder. You can even sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! I often switch it up with herbs like dried oregano or thyme, which pair wonderfully with the chicken and broccoli.

Experiment with Veggies

This recipe is super versatile! While broccoli is fantastic, you can easily toss in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots. Just remember that different veggies may have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly. If you’re adding something denser, like carrots, you might want to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

For the crispiest results, make sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket. If you pile everything in there, the air won’t circulate properly, and you might end up with soggy veggies. If you have a lot to cook, consider doing it in batches. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

Give It a Rest

After your chicken and broccoli are done cooking, let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier! Plus, it gives you a moment to set the table and prepare any sides you want to serve with it.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering air fryer chicken and broccoli. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations on Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

One of the best things about air fryer chicken and broccoli is how easily you can switch things up to keep your meals exciting! Here are some fun variations that I love to play around with:

Add Different Vegetables

Don’t feel limited to just broccoli! You can mix in any of your favorite veggies. Try adding bell peppers for a sweet crunch, carrots for a little sweetness, or zucchini for a fresh twist. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking!

Herbs and Spices Galore

Herbs can totally transform this dish! I often toss in some dried basil or oregano for an Italian flair, or sprinkle in paprika for a smoky touch. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro added after cooking can brighten up the flavors beautifully!

Try Different Marinades

If you want to change things up even more, consider marinating the chicken before cooking. A simple soy sauce and ginger marinade can give your dish an Asian twist, while a lemon and herb marinade can add a refreshing zing. Just be sure to adjust the salt in your recipe if your marinade is salty!

Go for Grain or Nut Add-Ins

Want to make your meal heartier? Add some cooked quinoa or brown rice into the mix after cooking. It soaks up the delicious flavors and makes for a filling meal. For a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts just before serving.

Cheesy Goodness

If you’re a cheese lover like me, sprinkle some parmesan or cheddar over the chicken and broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking. Let it melt and get gooey for a decadent finish!

With these variations, you can keep your air fryer chicken and broccoli fresh and exciting every time you make it. Let your creativity flow, and enjoy experimenting with all the delicious possibilities!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this fantastic air fryer chicken and broccoli, let’s talk about how to make it a complete meal! I love to serve it alongside a hearty grain or a light salad to balance everything out.

One of my favorite accompaniments is quinoa. It’s not only nutritious but also has a lovely nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and broccoli. Plus, it adds a nice texture to the meal! Just cook the quinoa according to package instructions and fluff it up before serving.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more filling, brown rice is a great option too. The chewy grains soak up any delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite delightful. You could even toss in some sautéed garlic or herbs while cooking for an extra flavor boost!

For a lighter touch, consider a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta can really brighten up the plate and add a refreshing crunch that complements the warm, savory chicken and broccoli.

Feeling adventurous? Serve your air fryer chicken and broccoli over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist! It’s a fantastic way to keep things light without sacrificing flavor.

Don’t forget about some crusty bread or a warm pita to scoop up any leftover bits! It’s a fun way to enjoy every last morsel of your delicious meal.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with a well-rounded and satisfying dinner. Enjoy every bite, and happy feasting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious air fryer chicken and broccoli, you might find yourself with some tasty leftovers. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them properly to maintain all that wonderful flavor and texture!

First off, allow the chicken and broccoli to cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. I usually portion them out into single servings, which makes it super easy for quick meals later on!

These leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. They’ll stay good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use your air fryer again! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place your leftovers in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method will help restore that lovely crispiness!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can reheat them in the oven as well. Just place the chicken and broccoli on a baking sheet, cover it with foil to keep moisture in, and warm it up at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Microwaving is also an option for a quick reheat, but be careful not to overdo it! Heat in short intervals of about 30 seconds, and check frequently to avoid rubbery chicken. If you want to keep the broccoli from getting mushy, consider reheating it separately.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your air fryer chicken and broccoli anytime you want, without sacrificing any of that deliciousness. Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for even results. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook frozen chicken in the air fryer, but it may take a few extra minutes. Just check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Q2. What other vegetables can I add to air fryer chicken and broccoli?
The sky’s the limit! You can add veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just remember, different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so cut them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking!

Q3. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix! You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce before cooking for an added flavor punch.

Q4. Can I meal prep air fryer chicken and broccoli?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just store the cooked chicken and broccoli in airtight containers, and they’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat them for a quick, healthy meal!

Q5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best results, use your air fryer! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the leftovers for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will help restore that crispy texture!