I love finding ways to make weeknight dinners both easy and delicious, and this Air Fryer Chicken Breast Bites and Broccoli recipe is one of my go-to meals. It’s packed with protein, full of flavor, and ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy evenings when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer gives the chicken a satisfying crispiness while keeping it juicy inside, and the broccoli turns out perfectly tender with just the right amount of char.
What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course with rice or quinoa, toss it into salads, or even pack it for lunch the next day. The seasoning is simple but flavorful, and you can easily adjust the spices to match your taste. Whether you’re meal prepping or just looking for a fast, healthy dinner, this recipe never disappoints.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and stays tender when cut into bite-sized pieces. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best texture and flavor.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal—they crisp up nicely in the air fryer while staying slightly tender. If you only have frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and broccoli while promoting even browning in the air fryer. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth of flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic. It distributes evenly over the chicken and broccoli for consistent taste.
Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika gives a mild warmth and a beautiful color to the dish. If you like a little heat, you can use a pinch of cayenne pepper instead.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight kick that balances well with the other seasonings.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Breast Bites and Broccoli
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Chop the broccoli into small florets if they’re too large. Pat both the chicken and broccoli dry with a paper towel to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Season the Chicken and Broccoli
In a large bowl, toss the chicken and broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps achieve a crispier texture.
Step 4: Cook in Batches (If Needed)
If your air fryer basket is small, cook the chicken and broccoli in batches to avoid overcrowding. Spread them in a single layer for even air circulation.
Step 5: Air Fry
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the broccoli should be tender with crispy edges.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the air fryer and let the chicken rest for a minute before serving. Pair with rice, quinoa, or enjoy it on its own!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—this ensures even crisping.
- Adjust cook time based on your air fryer model—some cook faster than others.
- Add Parmesan cheese in the last 2 minutes for extra flavor.
- Swap seasonings—try Italian seasoning or lemon pepper for variety.
- Use frozen broccoli? Thaw and pat dry to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect crispiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers work well—just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low-carb and high in protein, making it great for keto diets.
Why is my chicken dry?
Overcooking can dry it out—use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
This Air Fryer Chicken Breast Bites and Broccoli recipe is a lifesaver for quick, healthy meals. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free dinner!