If you love takeout-style stir-fries but want something healthier and faster, this Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a total win. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and umami-rich sauce come together in minutes, with no greasy pans or heavy oil. It’s weeknight magic—flavor-packed, balanced, and perfectly cooked every single time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
This dish turns simple ingredients into a delicious, nourishing meal.
- Fast—ready in under 15 minutes
- Crispy chicken and perfectly tender broccoli
- Light yet flavorful garlic-ginger sauce
- High in protein and full of nutrients
- Minimal cleanup with one air fryer basket
- Perfect meal prep recipe for busy weeks
When I was first experimenting with the air fryer, this was the dish that made me realize how powerful that little machine really is. A handful of ingredients, a few minutes of heat, and suddenly I had better-than-takeout chicken and broccoli right in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses clean, simple ingredients to deliver restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – Tender and quick-cooking.
- 1 tsp oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola) – Helps crisp up the chicken.
- 7 oz (200g) broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, cut into bite-size pieces.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Adds umami depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For savory flavor.
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated – Adds warmth and freshness.
- 1 tsp honey – Light sweetness for balance.
- 2 tsp sesame oil – Adds nutty aroma and shine.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose) – Savory base for the sauce.
- 1 tsp sriracha or hot sauce – Optional heat for balance.
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free soy sauce.
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a plant-based version.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.
- Serve with Chicken Ramen Stir Fry for a complete Asian-inspired dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make perfect Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli every time.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Marinate the chicken. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with oil, garlic, ginger, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha. (Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavor.)
- Air fry the chicken. Arrange in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add vegetables. Toss in broccoli and mushrooms. Spray lightly with oil and cook for 5–6 more minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Toss and serve. Mix everything together in a large bowl, coating evenly in the sauce from the air fryer basket.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
- Shake the basket for even cooking.
- For saucier results, drizzle extra soy-honey mix before serving.
- Adjust spice to taste by reducing sriracha.
Expert Tips for Success
A few tweaks can elevate this simple recipe into a standout dish.
- Cut chicken evenly so it cooks consistently.
- Use fresh broccoli florets for best texture.
- Add mushrooms last to avoid over-softening.
- Don’t skip sesame oil—it adds authentic flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer for better browning.
- Pair with rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal.
This recipe delivers that sizzling takeout energy with none of the guilt.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this healthy dish in so many satisfying ways.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice.
- Toss with noodles for a quick stir-fry bowl.
- Add a fried egg for extra protein.
- Pair with Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta for a sweet-spicy combo.
- Top with sesame seeds and chili flakes.
- Serve with One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles for an Asian-inspired dinner spread.
However you plate it, this recipe brings both flavor and balance.
Storing and Reheating
This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep and leftovers.
How to Store It
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in single portions for up to 2 months.
- Label with dates for easy tracking.
- Keep sauce separate if possible to prevent sogginess.
- Cool completely before refrigerating.
How to Reheat It
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes for crisp results.
- Microwave for 1 minute with a splash of water for moisture.
- Stir halfway through to heat evenly.
- Avoid overcooking—the chicken can dry out quickly.
Your leftovers will taste just as satisfying the next day.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 377 | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 144mg | Sodium: 853mg | Potassium: 1320mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 686IU | Vitamin C: 95mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 2mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! They stay extra juicy and flavorful—just add 2 minutes to the cook time.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Thaw and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli is proof that healthy dinners don’t have to be boring or complicated. It’s quick, flavorful, and full of texture—crispy chicken, tender veggies, and that crave-worthy garlic-ginger sauce.
- Preheat and don’t overcrowd.
- Balance sauce with sweet and savory.
- Enjoy fresh from the fryer for peak flavor.
From my kitchen near Austin to yours, this recipe brings warmth, ease, and flavor to every weeknight meal.
Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with oil, garlic, ginger, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha if using. Let marinate for 5 minutes.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add broccoli florets and mushrooms to the basket. Spray lightly with oil if desired. Cook for an additional 5–6 minutes until broccoli is tender‑crisp and chicken is cooked through.
- Transfer everything to a large bowl, toss to coat in the sauce from the basket, and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten‑free. Swap honey for maple syrup to make the sauce vegan‑friendly (with a plant‑based chicken substitute).
- For best texture, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
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