Make Mouthwatering Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli Tonight!

Are you craving a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal? Look no further than our Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli! This easy-to-prepare dish combines tender, marinated chicken with crisp broccoli florets, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a weeknight dinner that’s sure to satisfy your whole family.

Air frying has quickly become a game-changer in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy all the crispiness of fried foods with a fraction of the oil and calories. And when you pair this magical cooking method with the unbeatable combo of chicken and broccoli, you’ve got a nutritious and downright delicious meal on your hands. Let’s dive in and learn how to make these Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

The key to perfectly cooked Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli lies in the marinade and the arrangement in the air fryer basket. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Broccoli:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

The chicken marinade is a simple yet flavorful blend of olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and spices that infuses the meat with delicious savory-sweet notes. The broccoli is tossed in a bit of olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper to complement the chicken.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Ready to fire up that air fryer and whip up a mouthwatering meal? Let’s get started!

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to soak up all that deliciousness.

Preheat the Air Fryer

While the chicken is marinating, go ahead and preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even, crispy cooking.

Prepare the Broccoli

As the air fryer heats up, toss the broccoli florets in a bit of olive oil and season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This simple seasoning allows the natural flavor of the broccoli to shine.

Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken cubes in a single layer in the basket, then scatter the seasoned broccoli florets around the chicken.

Air Fry to Perfection

Pop the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through, and the broccoli should be tender-crisp and beautifully caramelized.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli are done, remove the basket from the air fryer. Serve the dish immediately, optionally garnishing with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

To help you achieve air frying greatness, here are a few handy tips and tricks:

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer you let the chicken sit in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but you can also marinate it for up to 4 hours in the fridge.
• Preheat, Preheat, Preheat: Resist the urge to skip the preheating step. Allowing your air fryer to reach the optimal temperature ensures even cooking and crispy results.
• Arrange with Care: Placing the chicken in a single layer and scattering the broccoli around it allows hot air to circulate freely, resulting in perfectly cooked bites and florets.
• Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on the size of your chicken cubes, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Larger pieces may require an extra minute or two to ensure they’re cooked through.
• Clean and Maintain: After enjoying your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, be sure to clean your air fryer basket thoroughly. This will help maintain its performance and longevity.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli dish is a versatile and satisfying main course that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices. A fresh green salad or a simple steamed vegetable medley would also make a great accompaniment.

For an extra flavor boost, you can serve the chicken bites with a dipping sauce on the side, such as teriyaki, honey mustard, or a creamy ranch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try tossing the cooked chicken and broccoli with your favorite pasta or incorporating them into a hearty grain bowl.

Variations and Customization

The beauty of Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is that it’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Alternative Proteins: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or cubed tofu for a different protein source.
• Veggie Variety: Mix up the vegetables by including bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini alongside the broccoli.
• Flavor Profiles: Experiment with different marinade flavors, such as spicy (add cayenne or chili powder), teriyaki (swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce), or lemon-herb (add lemon zest and fresh herbs).
• Dietary Modifications: To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli recipe to your liking. Have fun exploring different flavor combinations and ingredient swaps to find your perfect version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer along with the chicken and broccoli?

Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to the air fryer along with chicken and broccoli. Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or snap peas work well. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If you’re adding vegetables that cook faster than broccoli, consider adding them partway through the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

How can I make the chicken bites extra crispy in the air fryer?

To achieve extra crispy chicken bites, ensure that the chicken pieces are well-coated with the marinade, then consider lightly dusting them with cornstarch or breadcrumbs before air frying. This adds a crunchy texture. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cooking in batches allows hot air to circulate better around the food, resulting in crispier bites.

What should I do if my chicken bites are dry after cooking?

If your chicken bites turn out dry, it could be due to overcooking. To prevent this in the future, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also try marinating the chicken for a longer period before cooking, which helps to enhance moisture and flavor. If you’ve already cooked them, consider serving the chicken with a sauce or dip to add moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Cook the chicken and broccoli as directed, then let them cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to four days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again to restore crispiness, heating at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Air Fryer Pizza Bombs
• Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
• Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon with Asparagus
• Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites

Conclusion

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with the unbeatable combination of Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli. This recipe delivers a delicious and nutritious meal that’s ready in a flash, all while harnessing the power of your trusty air fryer. From the flavorful marinade to the perfectly crisp chicken and tender broccoli, every bite is a flavor explosion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this air-fried masterpiece!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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