Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner recipe that packs a flavor punch, look no further than Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious. The chicken is succulent, marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, and paired with perfectly roasted broccoli. And the best part? It’s all made in the air fryer, which means it’s healthier and requires less oil than traditional frying methods. Plus, it’s served over a fluffy bed of warm white rice, making it a complete meal that the whole family will love.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli stands out for several reasons. First, the air fryer allows the chicken to cook evenly while retaining its moisture, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy. The broccoli florets, with a slight crispness, complement the chicken beautifully. The teriyaki sauce brings a sweet and savory flavor that ties everything together, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredient Rundown
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast – Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- 1 head broccoli – Cut into florets to provide a nutritious and crunchy side.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce – Divided for marinating the chicken and drizzling over the finished dish.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing the flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
- 2 cups cooked white rice – Kept warm, serving as a hearty base for the chicken and broccoli.
Appliances & Accessories
Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- Air fryer – The star of the show, allowing for quick and healthy cooking.
- Mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce.
- Spatula or tongs – To handle the chicken and broccoli easily.
- Rice cooker or pot – To prepare the white rice ahead of time.
Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Cooking Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast and half of the teriyaki sauce. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step is essential as it infuses the chicken with flavor and helps keep it moist during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the chicken is marinating, wash and cut the broccoli into florets. You want them to be bite-sized for easy eating. If you like, you can toss the broccoli with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). This ensures that both the chicken and broccoli cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispy texture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken cubes in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
After the chicken has cooked for 10 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the air fryer basket. Drizzle a bit more teriyaki sauce over the broccoli if desired. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The broccoli should be bright green and tender yet slightly crisp.
Step 6: Serve Over Rice
While the chicken and broccoli are finishing, warm up your cooked white rice. Once everything is ready, serve the chicken and broccoli over the rice. Drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your healthy, delicious meal!
Adaptations for Special Diets
This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli recipe is versatile and can be adapted for various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own using tamari.
- Paleo: Replace the teriyaki sauce with coconut aminos and omit the rice.
- Keto: Serve the chicken and broccoli without rice or substitute with cauliflower rice.
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use the same marinating process.
What Could Go Wrong
Even the best of us can have hiccups in the kitchen. Here are a few common issues and how to avoid them:
- Overcooked Chicken: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to avoid dryness. An instant-read thermometer is a handy tool here.
- Soggy Broccoli: Ensure that the broccoli is not overcrowded in the air fryer, as this can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
- Uneven Cooking: Remember to shake or toss the basket halfway through cooking to promote even cooking.
- Too Much Sauce: Be mindful of the amount of teriyaki sauce used, as it can overpower the other flavors or make the dish too wet.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Preparing ahead of time can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some tips to make this dish even easier:
1. Marinate the Chicken: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. This will deepen the flavors.
2. Prep the Broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Cooked Rice: Prepare the white rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it in the microwave.
4. Batch Cooking: Consider making a larger batch of chicken and broccoli, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for great leftovers.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken to ensure tenderness, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! You can add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for an extra kick. Just adjust to your spice preference.
Is it possible to cook the chicken and broccoli separately?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and broccoli in separate batches if your air fryer is small or if you prefer to control the cooking times individually.
Wrap-Up
Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially with a recipe as easy and rewarding as Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli. Not only do you get a flavorful meal, but you also save time and effort without compromising on taste or nutrition. This dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or when you simply want something healthy without too much fuss. Plus, the air fryer does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy your evening without being stuck in the kitchen.
So, next time you’re in a dinner rut and craving something wholesome, remember this Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli recipe. It’s just a few simple steps away from becoming a staple in your culinary rotation. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast and half of the teriyaki sauce. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, wash and cut the broccoli into florets. Optionally, toss with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place the marinated chicken cubes in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add the broccoli florets to the air fryer and drizzle more teriyaki sauce over them. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Serve the chicken and broccoli over warm rice and drizzle with remaining teriyaki sauce.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prep broccoli ahead and store in an airtight container.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
