If you’re looking for an irresistible dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious, Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli will become your new weeknight hero. This recipe turns everyday ingredients into a vibrant, flavor-packed meal in under 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Juicy chicken pieces roast alongside crisp-tender broccoli, with each bite boasting a crispy edge and a burst of garlicky, savory goodness. Whether you’re craving something healthy, meal-prep friendly, or a crowd-pleaser, Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli checks all the boxes—and makes cleanup a breeze.

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the short ingredient list! Every item here brings something special to your Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli, from rich color to bold flavor and perfect texture. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can infuse into this simple dish.

Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast cooks quickly and stays juicy—cut it into uniform bite-size pieces for even crispiness.
Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli gives this recipe a gorgeous pop of green and a satisfying crunch; trim into evenly sized florets for best results.
Olive oil: A little oil ensures everything roasts up golden, prevents sticking, and deepens the savory flavor.
Soy sauce: Just a splash adds an instant punch of umami and saltiness, elevating those everyday ingredients.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken and broccoli with subtle warmth and aroma without the hassle of mincing fresh cloves.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle heat and rounds out all the flavors perfectly.
Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle on for a nutty crunch and restaurant-worthy presentation.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Broccoli

Start by cutting your chicken breast into evenly sized, bite-sized pieces. This ensures everything cooks at the same pace. Next, trim the broccoli into florets—aim for uniform sizes so nothing burns or ends up undercooked. Spread them both out on a large plate or bowl, ready for seasoning.

Step 2: Season Everything

Drizzle the chicken and broccoli with olive oil and soy sauce. Sprinkle over the garlic powder and black pepper, then toss everything together until coated. You want every piece lightly covered so the flavors penetrate and help the surfaces crisp up in the air fryer.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Lay the seasoned chicken and broccoli in a single layer in your air fryer basket. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, it’s better to cook in batches than to overcrowd the basket. Give ingredients a bit of room—this is what makes Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli so wonderfully crisp.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’re looking for juicy chicken that’s cooked all the way through and broccoli that’s bright green with delicious crispy edges. Have a peek at the 10-minute mark and check for doneness; every air fryer model is a little different.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like that extra touch. Serve immediately while everything is hot and crunchy for best results!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Garnishes

Treat your Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli to a handful of toasted sesame seeds, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a scatter of sliced green onions for extra color and a restaurant-style finish. A little squeeze of lemon also does wonders to brighten up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a bed of quinoa to soak up those savory juices. For something lighter, serve with a crisp salad or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a complete, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli in lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist, or tuck it into a wrap with a swipe of sriracha mayo. You can even pile it over Asian noodles for a takeout-inspired bowl that’s fresh and homemade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a superstar for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, portion the cooled chicken and broccoli into freezer bags or containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing with extra sauce or garnishes—add those fresh after reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until hot and sizzling. You can also use a skillet over medium heat. Microwave reheating is fastest but may soften the broccoli.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry first; excess moisture makes the broccoli less crispy in the air fryer.

What’s the best way to cut the chicken for this recipe?

Cut the chicken breast into uniform, bite-sized pieces—about 1-inch cubes work well. This ensures even cooking and helps every piece roast up juicy and crisp.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots all work beautifully. Just keep the pieces similar in size to the broccoli for even cooking.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve the best texture. If your air fryer has a preheat function, use it; if not, simply let it run empty for 2-3 minutes before adding your ingredients.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli gluten-free, swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version or tamari.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a fast, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy, you can’t go wrong with Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli. It’s fresh, flavorful, and ready in a snap—perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining. Give it a try and let this colorful dish brighten up your dinner table!

Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli Recipe