I’ve always believed that the best weeknight dinners are the ones that make you feel like you’ve put in maximum effort… when in reality, your air fryer did most of the work. This Air Fryer Chicken with Veggies is exactly that. It’s the kind of meal that looks colorful, smells incredible, and somehow manages to taste even better than it looks—without dirtying half your kitchen in the process.
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy days. I toss everything into the air fryer, let it crisp and roast to perfection, and in less than 25 minutes, I’m sitting down to something wholesome and satisfying. The juicy, well-seasoned chicken and tender, slightly caramelized vegetables make the perfect pair, and the clean-up is laughably easy. Trust me—you’ll be making this more than once a week.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: Lean, tender, and a great source of protein, chicken breast cooks beautifully in the air fryer. It holds flavor well and stays juicy when cooked at the right temperature.
Bell peppers: These bring a pop of color and natural sweetness to the dish. I like using a mix of red, yellow, and orange for that vibrant, farmers-market look.
Zucchini: Mild in flavor but a superstar at soaking up seasoning, zucchini becomes beautifully soft inside while keeping a slight bite on the outside.
Red onion: Adds a touch of sharpness that mellows into sweetness as it roasts. Plus, those slightly charred edges? Flavor gold.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning cling to the chicken and veggies while encouraging a golden, crisp finish in the air fryer.
Garlic powder: Brings a rich, savory depth that pairs well with both chicken and vegetables.
Paprika: Adds a warm smokiness and enhances the color of the chicken, giving it that appetizing golden hue.
Salt and pepper: The essential duo to make all the flavors pop. Simple, but absolutely non-negotiable.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken with Veggies
Step 1 – Prep the chicken and veggies
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chop all your vegetables into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Step 2 – Season everything
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat every piece evenly.
Step 3 – Arrange in the air fryer
Spread the chicken and veggies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—this allows the hot air to circulate and ensures crispy, evenly cooked bites.
Step 4 – Cook to perfection
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the vegetables lightly charred.
Step 5 – Serve and enjoy
Transfer to a plate or shallow bowl and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even a warm slice of crusty bread.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut evenly: Keep your chicken and veggie pieces similar in size so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd: Overpacking the air fryer will steam your food instead of crisping it.
- Preheat for best results: A few minutes of preheating can help achieve a golden crust.
- Change up the veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms also work wonderfully.
- Use a meat thermometer: It’s the best way to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more forgiving in the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time by a couple of minutes if needed.
What’s the best oil for air frying?
Olive oil works well for flavor, but avocado oil is another great option since it has a higher smoke point.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep and season everything ahead, then store it in the fridge. Just cook it fresh for the best texture.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not for this recipe, but if you want extra depth of flavor, a quick 30-minute marinade can work wonders.