This quick air fryer chicken and veggies dish is a lifesaver! Juicy chicken pieces and colorful veggies cook together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
I love how everything gets crispy without a lot of fuss. Just toss them in the fryer, wait, and you have a tasty meal ready! It’s my go-to for a weeknight dinner. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect in this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use thigh pieces instead. They’re juicier and can add extra flavor.
Vegetables: I love using zucchini, broccoli, and red bell pepper for their crunch and color. You can mix it up with whatever veggies you have on hand, like carrots, snow peas, or asparagus. Just cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the chicken and veggies get crispy. If you need a substitute, canola oil or avocado oil work well. They’re also great for high heat cooking!
Spices: The combination of oregano, basil, and paprika adds great flavor. If you don’t have these herbs, Italian seasoning or a dash of curry powder could change things up nicely!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the cooking time and temperature. Here are some tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer properly—this helps start the cooking process right away.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows hot air to circulate and cook everything evenly.
These simple steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time!
Quick Air Fryer Chicken and Veggies in 15 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into half-moons
- 1 cup broccoli florets, small pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and only 12-15 minutes to cook, giving you a delicious dinner ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings or when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes around 3-5 minutes, and it ensures that the chicken and veggies cook evenly and become nicely crispy.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large bowl, add the chicken pieces, zucchini, broccoli, red bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. These colorful ingredients will not only make your dish look great but also pack it with flavor!
3. Season Them Up:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and veggies. Now, sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until all the pieces are well coated in the delicious seasoning. This step makes all the difference!
4. Air Fry the Mixture:
Carefully transfer the seasoned chicken and veggies into the air fryer basket, spreading them out into an even layer. This helps them cook evenly. If your air fryer is small, you may need to do this in batches.
5. Cooking Time:
Close the air fryer and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through (about 6-7 minutes in), shake the basket or gently stir the contents to ensure they brown nicely on all sides.
6. Check for Doneness:
Once the timer goes off, check the chicken to make sure it’s fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). The veggies should be tender yet still a bit crisp. If everything looks good, you’re ready to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious air fryer chicken and veggies immediately! You can garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your healthy meal in no time!
Happy cooking! 🥗🍗
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Using frozen chicken isn’t ideal for even cooking, but if you must, make sure to thaw it beforehand. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Always pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Vegetables Can I Use Instead?
Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables! Options like bell peppers, asparagus, carrots, or snap peas all work well. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Remember that some veggies may cook faster than others, so adjust cooking times as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain that crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time! Toss everything with the seasonings and oil, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the air fryer for a quick meal!
