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Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli - Quick, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Broccoli: 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
  • Oil: 1–2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 3 tablespoons
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1–2 teaspoons
  • Rice vinegar or lime juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Ginger: 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
  • Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (optional, helps the sauce cling)
  • Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha: To taste (optional)
  • Sesame seeds and green onions: For garnish (optional)
  • Cooked rice or cauliflower rice: For serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps prevent sticking and gives better browning.
  • Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with 1 tablespoon oil, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Coat evenly.
  • Make the quick sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a little sriracha.
  • Toss the broccoli: In a separate bowl, toss broccoli with 1 teaspoon oil and a pinch of salt. You want a light, even coat so it roasts, not steams.
  • Air fry the chicken first: Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer in the hot basket. Cook at 380°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until the pieces are just cooked through and lightly browned. Internal temp should reach 165°F.
  • Add the broccoli: Add the broccoli to the basket with the chicken. Shake to combine and spread out again. Cook another 5–6 minutes, shaking once, until broccoli is crisp-tender and edges are slightly charred.
  • Finish with sauce: Transfer chicken and broccoli to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over while hot and toss to coat. The residual heat will slightly thicken the sauce and help it cling.
  • Taste and adjust: Add a splash more soy for salt, an extra drizzle of honey for sweetness, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Balance is key.
  • Serve: Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, or enjoy as is for a low-carb plate.