Name: Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 head broccoli (cut into florets); 1 cup teriyaki sauce (divided); to taste Salt and pepper; 2 cups cooked white rice (kept warm)

When it comes to quick and delicious meals, Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli takes center stage. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch. With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a savory teriyaki glaze, you’ll be feeling like a culinary master in no time. Plus, it pairs beautifully with warm white rice for a complete meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how to make this satisfying dish!

The Upside of Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Air frying is a game-changer in the kitchen. It allows you to enjoy crispy, flavorful foods without the excess oil that traditional frying requires. Not only does this make meals healthier, but it also saves time and clean-up effort. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and browning. Plus, chicken and broccoli are a match made in heaven; the juicy, tender chicken complements the crunchy, vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that’s visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 head broccoli, cut into florets
1 cup teriyaki sauce, divided
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked white rice, kept warm

Hardware & Gadgets

Air Fryer: The star of the show! Choose one with adjustable temperature settings for optimal cooking.
Cutting Board: For preparing your chicken and broccoli.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting chicken and vegetables evenly.
Mixing Bowl: Use this for marinating your chicken in teriyaki sauce.

Method: Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Start by cutting your chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and your broccoli into florets. This size allows for even cooking and ensures that both the chicken and broccoli are perfectly tender.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with half of the teriyaki sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving that ideal crispy texture.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add the Broccoli

After 10 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the basket with the chicken. Drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce over both the chicken and broccoli. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender yet crisp.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

To serve, place a generous portion of warm white rice on each plate. Top with the air-fried chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring to drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you prefer a different protein, try using shrimp or tofu for a delicious alternative.
You can substitute the teriyaki sauce with soy sauce or a homemade stir-fry sauce for a different flavor profile.
For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and broccoli over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the mix for added color and nutrition.

Insider Tips

To ensure your Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli comes out perfectly every time, consider these insider tips:

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches will help achieve that crispy texture.
For an even bolder flavor, add garlic or ginger to the marinade.
Experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki or sweet chili for a twist.
Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for an extra touch.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain that crispy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.

Refrigerator: 3 days
Freezer: Not recommended for this dish, as the broccoli may become mushy upon reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken or broccoli for this recipe?

While fresh chicken and broccoli yield the best results, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the air fryer. Frozen chicken is not recommended, as it needs to be fully thawed for even cooking.

What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?

No worries! You can easily make a simple stir-fry sauce with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. This will give you a similar sweet and savory flavor profile.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and it will be just as delicious when cooked in the air fryer. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just be mindful of cutting them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

See You at the Table

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious, nutritious, and quick meal that you can whip up in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of air frying, you’ll have a dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep your family coming back for more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy a delightful dinner that’s both easy and full of flavor!