Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Easy to make and can be ready in just about 30 minutes! Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli are perfect for busy weeknights or quick family meals. The tender chicken bites coated in a sweet and savory sauce paired with vibrant broccoli create a delicious and nutritious dish. Serve it over rice with fresh parsley for an amazing meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and spices ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a balanced meal option.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with rice, quinoa, or even salad for a varied dining experience.
• Air Fryer Convenience: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil and mess, while achieving that crispy texture everyone loves.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, gather the following tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks food quickly while using less oil than traditional frying methods.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping chicken and veggies.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Broccoli

• 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

To Serve

• Cooked rice
• Parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Stir well until fully combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. Transfer them to the bowl with the marinade:
Stir to coat each piece evenly.
Let marinate for at least 15 minutes on the counter or up to an hour in the fridge.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

While the chicken marinates:
Cut broccoli into florets.
Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to preheat at 380ºF (193ºC).

Step 5: Cook Chicken

Add chicken to the air fryer basket in one layer:
Air fry for about 10–12 minutes or until no longer pink near the center.

Step 6: Add Broccoli

Shake the basket gently to ensure even cooking:
Add broccoli to the basket alongside the chicken.
Continue air frying for another 6–8 minutes until both chicken and broccoli are cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Once done, serve your Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli over cooked rice:
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Serving Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is simple yet satisfying. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its taste and presentation.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken bites and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. These herbs add a lovely aroma and enhance the overall taste.

In a Wrap

• Create a tasty wrap by placing the chicken and broccoli in a tortilla. Add some lettuce or other veggies for crunch, then drizzle with your favorite sauce.

As Part of a Salad

• Toss the chicken bites and broccoli into a fresh salad for a healthy meal option. Add some avocado or nuts for added texture and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve alongside dipping sauces like sweet chili or ranch. This adds an extra layer of flavor that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Perfecting your Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli requires attention to detail, ensuring every bite is delicious. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Marinate Well – Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse it with flavor. For best results, let it sit in the fridge for up to an hour.

• Cut Evenly – Ensure all chicken pieces are cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.

• Preheat Your Air Fryer – Preheating the air fryer ensures the chicken cooks properly from the start, resulting in crispy edges.

• Avoid Overcrowding – Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of air frying, affecting texture.

• Check Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken and broccoli.

2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta adds freshness and nutrition to your meal.

3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with savory chicken bites.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Roasted sweet potatoes bring sweetness to balance out the savory elements of this dish.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken bites.

6. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans offer an additional veggie option that keeps the meal healthy and vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 15 minutes for better taste.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too much chicken or broccoli in the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring temperature preheating: Failing to preheat your air fryer may affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your air fryer as directed.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165ºF for safety.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Under-seasoning your vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Don’t skip salt and pepper; they enhance the dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep chicken bites and broccoli separate from rice if possible.

Freezing Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure all items are fully cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating for better flavor absorption.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for added crunch.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to adjust ingredients like vinegar or add chili flakes for spice!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated easily, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different seasonings or sides based on your preferences. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, so give it a try!