Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce, paired with vibrant broccoli. In just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Serve it over rice, sprinkle with parsley, and you have an impressive yet simple dinner option!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and savory marinade infuses the chicken with incredible taste.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, this recipe is a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it over rice, quinoa, or even mixed greens for a delightful salad.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love the tender chicken bites, while adults appreciate the gourmet flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This tool cooks food quickly while keeping it crispy without excess oil.
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly.
- Cutting board: Helps protect your counters while preparing ingredients safely.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for even cooking.
Ingredients
Easy to make and can be ready in just about 30 minutes! Small pieces of tender chicken are coated in a delicious, sweet, and savory sauce. Serve over rice with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an amazing meal!
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
For the Broccoli
- 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
For Serving
- Cooked rice
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl:
1. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil.
2. Pour in 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon maple syrup.
4. Mix in 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning.
5. Add 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
6. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces:
1. Transfer the chicken to the bowl with marinade.
2. Stir well to coat each piece evenly.
3. Allow marinating for at least 15 minutes on the counter or up to an hour in the fridge.
Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
While the chicken marinates:
1. Cut broccoli into florets.
2. Rub florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with kosher salt and pepper.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 380ºF.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the air fryer basket:
1. Arrange in a single layer.
2. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes until no longer pink.
Step 6: Add Broccoli
Shake the basket gently:
1. Add broccoli florets to the basket with chicken.
2. Continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes until broccoli is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot over cooked rice:
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for extra flavor!
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Serving Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish, making it even more enjoyable for you and your family.
Over Rice
- Serve the chicken bites and broccoli over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, enhancing every bite.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor. These herbs not only add freshness but also make the dish visually appealing.
In a Wrap
- Use tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken bites, broccoli, and your choice of sauces. This makes for a quick lunch option that’s easy to eat on the go.
Paired with a Salad
- Serve alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the air-fried chicken.
As Meal Prep
- Divide the chicken bites and broccoli into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This keeps your meals organized and ready to go.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard on the side. This adds variety and allows everyone to customize their flavors.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Getting the most out of your Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure perfection every time you prepare this dish.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor significantly.
Cut Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. This helps achieve that perfect tenderness throughout.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken. This ensures that they cook evenly from the start.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. The air needs space to circulate for perfect crispiness.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF, ensuring it’s safe to eat.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings or try different marinades based on your personal taste preferences for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Steamed Rice: Classic white or brown rice acts as a neutral base, soaking up flavors from the chicken and sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides protein and fiber, making your meal more nutritious while adding texture.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes offer an earthy flavor that pairs well with the savory chicken bites.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and buttery flavor, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a cool contrast, balancing out the warm, savory elements of the main dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory notes in the chicken bites.
- Veggie Stir-Fry: A quick veggie stir-fry can enhance nutrition while providing additional colors and textures to your plate.
- Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative that still brings comfort food vibes without overwhelming calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
Skipping the Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; 15 minutes is the minimum, or you can refrigerate it for up to an hour for better taste.
Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: If you pile all the chicken and broccoli in at once, they won’t cook evenly. Make sure to air fry in a single layer for optimal results.
Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy texture. Always preheat your air fryer to 380ºF before adding the chicken.
Ignoring Vegetable Size: Cutting broccoli into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Ensure all florets are similar in size for even cooking.
Neglecting Cooking Times: Every air fryer is different. Keep an eye on your food and adjust cooking times as necessary, especially when adding the broccoli.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
- Place cooled chicken bites and broccoli in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF. Spread chicken and broccoli on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken bites with this recipe?
You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. Thawing beforehand will help ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?
This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. You can also add a side salad for extra greens!
How do I customize the flavor of my Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?
Feel free to swap out seasonings or add your favorite sauces for different flavors! Adding spicy sauce can give it a kick.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from broccoli, making it a balanced meal option.
Can I use different vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, green beans, or asparagus work great as substitutes. Just ensure they have similar cooking times.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is an easy and delicious meal that can be ready in about 30 minutes! Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and sides according to your preference. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!
Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli
Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then air-fried to crispy perfection alongside vibrant broccoli florets. In just 30 minutes, you can serve this nutritious meal that appeals to the whole family. Pair it with rice for a filling dinner, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an impressive touch.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cooked rice for serving
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the broccoli by tossing it with olive oil and seasoning.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380ºF.
- Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add the broccoli to the basket and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until tender.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken longer if time allows. Ensure uniform cutting of chicken and broccoli for even cooking. Customize the dish by experimenting with different sauces or side options.
