Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner that comes together in no time? Air fryer chicken and broccoli is the perfect weeknight meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli and mushrooms, all coated in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packs a punch of bold flavors with garlic, fresh ginger, and a hint of heat from sriracha. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting out, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you haven’t yet discovered the magic of air frying, this recipe is a great introduction. The air fryer cooks food quickly while giving it a wonderful texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—without the need for excessive oil. This chicken and broccoli recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something nourishing, delicious, and straightforward. Plus, it’s gluten-friendly if you choose the right soy sauce, and it’s naturally packed with protein and fiber.

The combination of ginger, garlic, and sesame oil brings a depth of flavor that makes this dish anything but boring. The slight sweetness from honey balances the savory soy sauce and the subtle heat from sriracha adds just the right kick. Best of all, this recipe uses simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store and takes less than 30 minutes from prep to plate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) 2-3 medium chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
• 7oz (200g) broccoli florets (about 2 cups), cut into small bite-size pieces
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 3 mm / ⅛” thick
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (all-purpose or light)
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets, and slice the mushrooms thinly. Mince the garlic and grate fresh ginger to bring out their fresh, vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the peanut or vegetable oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha. Whisk everything together until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly. Let this marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately and develops a nice sear.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to promote even cooking. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

After the chicken is partially cooked, add the broccoli florets and sliced mushrooms to the air fryer basket. Give everything a gentle toss to mix with the chicken and remaining marinade. Cook an additional 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the mushrooms are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, transfer the chicken and vegetables to a serving dish. Drizzle any leftover sauce from the bowl over the top for extra flavor. Serve immediately on its own, or with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to maintain crispness.
• Adjust the sriracha to your heat preference—start with less and add more if you like it spicy.
• For best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to an hour if you have time.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and toss the cooked chicken and veggies in it briefly on the stove.
• Use a silicone or non-stick spray lightly on the air fryer basket to prevent sticking without adding extra oil.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein swaps: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result, or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Vegetable options: Try bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for different textures and colors.
• Spice level: Swap sriracha for chili garlic sauce or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Extra crunch: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.
• Serve with: Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispness, or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can cook this recipe in a hot skillet or wok over medium-high heat, cooking the chicken first until browned and cooked through, then stir-frying the vegetables until tender-crisp. Toss with the sauce at the end.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the sriracha. You can easily adjust the spice by using less or more sriracha or substituting with a milder hot sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance for more flavor. However, it’s best to cook and serve fresh for optimal texture. If prepping ahead, store marinated chicken in the fridge and air fry just before serving.

Conclusion

This air fryer chicken and broccoli recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with protein and veggies, coated in a deliciously tangy and slightly spicy sauce that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. The air fryer does all the hard work for you, crisping the chicken perfectly while keeping the broccoli tender and bright. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation. Give it a try today and enjoy a quick, easy, and wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!