Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Crispy, golden chicken bites nestled amongst vibrant green broccoli florets, all kissed with the magic of the air fryer. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will dance on your taste buds!

Imagine biting into juicy, tender chicken, followed by the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked broccoli. This Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe delivers all that and more, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

• Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and healthy meal.
• The combination of savory chicken and slightly sweet broccoli creates a balanced and delicious flavor profile that everyone will love.
• The air fryer crisps the chicken and broccoli to perfection without the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying.
• You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite seasonings and sauces to create a personalized meal that suits your taste.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and easy bite-sized pieces. Ensure the chicken is fresh and doesn’t have any discoloration.

Broccoli Florets Fresh broccoli florets offer the best texture and flavor, but frozen can also be used. Ensure the broccoli is evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Olive Oil A good quality olive oil helps to crisp the chicken and broccoli in the air fryer. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.

Garlic Powder Garlic powder provides a savory, aromatic flavor that complements both the chicken and broccoli. Use fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.

Onion Powder Onion powder adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the seasoning blend. Make sure your spice is fresh for the best quality.

Paprika Paprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken. Smoked paprika can be used for a more intense smoky flavor.

Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Soy Sauce (Reduced Sodium) This adds umami and saltiness to the marinade without overpowering the natural flavors of the chicken and broccoli.

Maple Syrup Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization in the air fryer, making this chicken and broccoli a fantastic culinary marriage.

Cornstarch Cornstarch helps to create a crispy exterior on the chicken bites in the air fryer without added fat.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add cornstarch to the chicken mixture and toss to coat evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chicken become tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the broccoli. Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5: Air Fry the Broccoli

After removing the chicken, place the broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Combine the air-fried chicken bites and broccoli in a bowl. Toss gently to mix. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For the best results with air fryer chicken bites and broccoli, start by preheating the air fryer. Toss the chicken in seasoning while the broccoli is already arranged in the air fryer. This ensures that both components cook evenly and finish at the same time, resulting in perfectly cooked, crispy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this air fryer chicken bites and broccoli recipe! Swap the chicken for turkey or the broccoli for cauliflower. For extra flavor, experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili flakes for a little heat.

Storing & Reheating

To store your leftover air fryer chicken bites and broccoli, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer again for a few minutes until heated through and crispy.

Here are some expert tips to elevate your air fryer game:

• Make sure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; work in batches if necessary, to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• For extra crispy chicken, lightly coat the chicken pieces with a bit of cornstarch before adding the seasonings.
• Don’t forget to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning and prevent sticking.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I once made this for a potluck, and it was gone in minutes! My friend said it was the best chicken and broccoli she’d ever had, and now she asks for the recipe all the time.

Let’s get into the full recipe! I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Another air fryer recipe? Really?” But trust me on this one. This isn’t just any air fryer recipe. This is *the* air fryer recipe for **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** that will convert even the most skeptical of eaters.

Why You’ll Obsess Over This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Okay, let’s be honest. We all love convenience. And what’s more convenient than throwing something into an air fryer and having it come out perfectly cooked and crispy in minutes? This **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe takes that convenience and elevates it with amazing flavor and healthy ingredients.

Imagine juicy, tender chicken bites seasoned to perfection, paired with perfectly cooked broccoli that has that slightly charred, crispy edge. Are you drooling yet? Because I am. This isn’t your bland, steamed broccoli and dry chicken. This is a flavor explosion in every bite, and it’s all thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

The Secret Ingredient (It’s Not What You Think)

Alright, I’m not going to lie. There’s no *single* secret ingredient that makes this recipe amazing. It’s a combination of things. But if I had to pick one thing that really takes this **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe to the next level, it would be the seasoning blend.

Forget those pre-packaged seasoning packets filled with questionable ingredients and too much sodium. We’re making our own! A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, a touch of cayenne pepper, and a little bit of brown sugar creates a sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile that complements both the chicken and the broccoli perfectly.

And the best part? You can customize it to your liking! If you’re not a fan of spice, leave out the cayenne pepper. If you want a little more sweetness, add a bit more brown sugar. It’s your kitchen, your rules!

Ingredients

: The Lineup for Deliciousness

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simple, right? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. And if not, they’re easy to find at any grocery store.

Step-by-Step Instructions

: Air Fryer Mastery

Now for the fun part! Let’s get cooking. Here’s how to make the best **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** you’ve ever tasted:

1. **Preheat Your Air Fryer: ** Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.

2. **Prepare the Chicken: ** In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.

3. **Prepare the Broccoli: ** In another medium bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

4. **Air Fry the Chicken: ** Place the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket; you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.

5. **Add the Broccoli: ** Add the broccoli florets to the air fryer basket with the chicken. Air fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly charred. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

6. **Serve and Enjoy: ** Remove the **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Variations

: Spice It Up!

Want to take this **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe to the next level? Here are a few variations to try:

• **Lemon Herb:** Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to the chicken and broccoli for a bright, flavorful twist.
• **Teriyaki:** Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce before air frying for a sweet and savory dish.
• **Buffalo:** Toss the cooked chicken bites in buffalo wing sauce for a spicy kick. Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• **Mediterranean:** Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the chicken and broccoli after air frying for a taste of the Mediterranean.
• **Garlic Parmesan:** Toss the cooked chicken and broccoli with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a classic combination.

What to Serve with Your Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

This **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Quinoa or rice for a complete meal
• A simple salad for a light and refreshing option
• Roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness
• Garlic bread for soaking up all the delicious juices

Troubleshooting

: Air Fryer Fails (and How to Avoid Them)

Air fryers are pretty foolproof, but sometimes things can go wrong. Here are a few common air fryer fails and how to avoid them:

• **Food is dry:** This usually happens when the food is overcooked. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but not overdone.
• **Food is not crispy:** This can happen if the air fryer basket is overcrowded. Make sure to cook the food in batches to allow for proper air circulation.
• **Food is sticking to the basket:** This can happen if the basket is not properly oiled. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil before adding the food.

The Bottom Line

: This Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a Winner!

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this **air fryer chicken bites and broccoli** recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even a casual get-together with friends.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your air fryer and get cooking! You won’t regret it.

Conclusion for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli :

These Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli are a surefire way to conquer dinner dilemmas. They are quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. With tender chicken and crispy broccoli, even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds. So, embrace the simplicity and flavor of this air fryer recipe. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal that’s ready in a flash.

Print

FAQs :

Can I use frozen broccoli for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is your friend on a busy weeknight. Just toss it in the air fryer with the chicken, but keep an eye on it – it might cook a tad faster than fresh. The key is to ensure it’s heated through and slightly crispy but not mushy. If you are worried about sogginess, you can thaw it slightly and pat it dry before air frying. Remember, convenience is king (or queen!) in the kitchen, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of the freezer aisle.

What dipping sauces go well with Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?

Oh, the possibilities! For a classic choice, a creamy ranch or honey mustard is always a hit. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce. Don’t forget the simple pleasures of a good quality ketchup or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. The best part about these Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is that they are a blank canvas for your dipping desires.

How can I make the Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli spicier?

If you are looking to kick up the heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken marinade will do the trick. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken and broccoli before air frying. Or, for a more complex flavor, try adding a bit of chili powder or smoked paprika to the spice blend. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away, so start small and taste as you go!

How do I store leftover Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?

Storing leftovers of these Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a breeze. Simply let them cool completely, then pop them into an airtight container and stash them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can toss them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up, or microwave them for a quick and easy meal. While air frying is best for texture, a microwave will do in a pinch!