Air Fryer Chicken and Rice: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It

Name: Air Fryer Chicken and Rice: 5 Reasons You'll Love It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken fillets; 1 cup rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 cup mixed vegetables

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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Hey there, friends! Let me tell you about my latest obsession: *air fryer chicken and rice*. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners! I love how simple it is to whip up this dish, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes. Just imagine the juicy chicken paired with fluffy rice and colorful veggies, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Not only does it taste fantastic, but it’s also a fantastic way to serve up a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness of this easy, flavorful dish!

Ingredients List

You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to create this mouthwatering air fryer chicken and rice. Here’s what you’ll gather:

2 chicken fillets
1 cup rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (your choice!)

Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste. I love adding a bit more garlic powder for that extra kick! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken and Rice

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer ready! Preheat it to 380°F (193°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes, and trust me, it’s worth the wait. Preheating ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden finish. You wouldn’t want to throw in the chicken and have it cook unevenly, right? So, while you’re waiting, take a moment to gather your ingredients and get excited! Your kitchen’s about to smell amazing!

Season the Chicken Fillets

Now, let’s give those chicken fillets some love! Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken, making sure to coat them well. Next, sprinkle on 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to your taste—don’t be shy! I like to really season them well for maximum flavor. Massage the spices into the chicken; it’s almost like giving them a little spa treatment! Let them sit for a minute while you prepare the air fryer basket.

Cook the Chicken

Time to cook! Carefully place the seasoned chicken fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 15 minutes. Halfway through, I like to check and give them a little flip to ensure they’re cooking evenly. But don’t forget the most important part: check for doneness! The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it’s not there yet, give it a few more minutes. You want it juicy and tender, not dry!

Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is doing its thing, let’s focus on the rice! Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial because it removes excess starch, preventing your rice from getting gummy. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. During the last 5 minutes, toss in 1 cup of mixed vegetables. This way, they stay colorful and crisp—just the way you want them!

Rest and Serve

Once everything’s cooked to perfection, it’s time to plate up! Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and delicious. Serve the chicken over the fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for some extra flair. Enjoy your homemade air fryer chicken and rice—it’s a dish that’s sure to impress!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note about the nutritional information I’ve provided for this air fryer chicken and rice recipe. The values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. That’s right—things like the type of chicken, brand of broth, or even the veggies can change the numbers! So, it’s always a good idea to consider this when you’re whipping up the dish. I want you to enjoy every bite without any surprises, so keep this in mind as you cook. Happy eating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This air fryer chicken and rice comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal!
Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices and juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering flavor you won’t forget.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is a nutritious option for the whole family.
Versatile: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables and seasonings to make it your own!

Tips for Success

To make your air fryer chicken and rice turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips! First, don’t skip the preheating step; it’s crucial for even cooking. If you’re looking for extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in the olive oil and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This little bit of patience pays off with a more flavorful bite.

Also, keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks. Air fryers can vary in strength, so checking for that 165°F (74°C) internal temperature is essential to ensure it’s juicy and safe to eat. Finally, feel free to experiment with the mixed vegetables! You can use frozen or fresh, but remember to add heartier veggies like carrots or broccoli a few minutes earlier if you want them to stay crisp. Happy cooking!

Variations for Air Fryer Chicken and Rice

The beauty of this air fryer chicken and rice recipe is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. For example, try using different cuts of chicken, like thighs or drumsticks, for a richer flavor and juicier texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, marinate the chicken in some soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for a fun twist.

When it comes to veggies, the sky’s the limit! Swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites—zucchini, bell peppers, or even some snap peas work wonderfully. You can also experiment with spices; adding a pinch of paprika or cumin can give it a delightful kick. And if you want a creamy touch, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt right before serving. These variations will make this dish your own and keep everyone coming back for more!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover air fryer chicken and rice is super simple! Just let everything cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers, and it should stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, I recommend using the air fryer if you have it! Just pop it back in at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This keeps everything crispy and delicious. If you’re using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to make sure it warms evenly. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken fillets! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. You’ll want to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to be safe.

Q2: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! You can use water instead, but I recommend adding some extra seasonings to boost the flavor. A little bit of garlic powder or onion powder can go a long way!

Q3: How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice should be fluffy and tender when it’s done cooking. If you find it’s still a bit hard, you can add a splash more broth or water, cover it, and let it steam for a few more minutes.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and rice ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and then reheat them together when you’re ready to eat. The flavors will meld beautifully!

Q5: What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Broccoli, bell peppers, peas, or even spinach are fabulous additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on how hearty the veggies are!