Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli for a Quick Dinner!

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinner, this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe is about to become your new go-to! Tender chicken, crispy broccoli, and a savory, Parmesan-garlic seasoning come together for a meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in just minutes. The best part? You can make it all in your trusty air fryer for maximum crispiness with minimal effort. Let’s dive in!

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The Magic of Air Fryer Cooking

The air fryer has become a game-changer in home kitchens, and for good reason. This versatile appliance uses rapid air circulation to create a crispy, crunchy texture on a variety of foods – from french fries to chicken wings and beyond. By using just a fraction of the oil required for traditional frying, air fryers deliver all the satisfying crispiness you crave with a healthier twist.

When it comes to Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, the air fryer is a total rockstar. The intense hot air cooks the chicken through while crisping up the exterior, and it achieves the perfect level of char and crispiness on the broccoli florets. It’s a hands-off, mess-free way to enjoy a delicious, nutrient-packed meal in no time.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Season the Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites and broccoli florets with the olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until everything is evenly coated.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.

Air Fry the Chicken and Broccoli

Add the seasoned chicken bites and broccoli to the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is crisp-tender.

Add the Parmesan (Optional)

If you’d like an extra burst of flavor, immediately sprinkle the hot chicken bites and broccoli with the grated Parmesan cheese.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli to a serving plate, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and enjoy hot!

Nutritional Information

This Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe is not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also a nutritious and well-balanced meal. Chicken is a lean protein that’s packed with essential amino acids, while broccoli is a fiber-rich, vitamin-packed vegetable that provides a wealth of antioxidants. When enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle, this dish can be a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are some ways you can customize it to suit your tastes:

• Swap the Veggies: Instead of broccoli, try using diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, or even Brussels sprouts for a different flavor profile.
• Change the Protein: Chicken not your thing? Swap it out for cubes of tofu, shrimp, or even ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Amp up the Flavor: For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also experiment with different seasoning blends, like Italian herbs or Southwest-inspired spices.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to making this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe your own!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken
• Oven-Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan
• Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you air fry broccoli and chicken at the same time?

Yes, you can absolutely air fry the chicken bites and broccoli together in this recipe. The key is to make sure they are in a single layer in the air fryer basket, which allows for even cooking and crisping.

How long do chicken bites need in an air fryer?

For this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe, the chicken bites need to cook for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking the basket halfway through, until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.

How to prevent broccoli from burning in an air fryer?

To prevent the broccoli from burning in the air fryer, make sure to:

• Cut the broccoli florets into even, bite-sized pieces
• Toss the broccoli with the seasoned chicken bites and oil to ensure even coating
• Arrange the chicken and broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning

How do you make chicken and broccoli bake?

If you’d prefer to bake the Chicken and Broccoli instead of using an air fryer, simply:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the seasoned chicken bites and broccoli florets with the oil and spread them out on a large, parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping the chicken and broccoli halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is crisp-tender.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired, and serve hot.

Conclusion

Get ready to fall in love with this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe! It’s a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With the magic of your air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken and broccoli in no time. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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