Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes: Air Fryer Chicken and Veggies! This dish is like a culinary hug; it’s wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for any busy weeknight. Honestly, I can whip this up in the time it takes to scroll through Instagram, which is always a win in my book! Plus, my kids devour it every time, which makes me feel like a true cooking wizard.
The best part? You can customize it with whatever veggies you have lying around, so it’s not just delicious—it’s practical too! I remember the first time I made this recipe. I opened my fridge, saw a random assortment of vegetables, and thought, “Why not?” It turned out to be a staple in my household, and now, I make it at least once a week. It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your artistic touch!
What’s in Air Fryer Chicken and Veggies?
Let’s dive into the glorious list of ingredients that make this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 lb chicken breast, diced: The star of the show! I always go for lean chicken breast for a healthy protein source.
2 cups mixed vegetables: You can use whatever veggies tickle your fancy! I love using a mix of broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion, but this is where you can really flex your creativity.
2 tbsp olive oil: A healthy fat that also helps all those spices cling to the chicken and veggies beautifully. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right? This adds a warm, savory kick.
1 tsp onion powder: Another level of savory goodness; it complements the garlic powder perfectly!
1 tsp smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that elevates your dish to gourmet status. It gives a lovely deep flavor and a hint of smokiness.
1/2 tsp dried oregano: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with chicken and veggies alike.
1/2 tsp dried thyme: A little sprinkle of thyme goes a long way in adding earthiness to this dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all those lovely flavors.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): It’s not just for looks! Fresh parsley adds a nice peppery bite and a pop of color.
Is Air Fryer Chicken and Veggies Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition without sacrificing any flavor.
Chicken breast: Lean protein that’s low in fat but high in niacin and selenium. It’s great for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Mixed vegetables: They’re brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Adding a variety of colors not only makes the dish more fun but also ensures you’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
Olive oil: This healthy fat is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help with heart health.
This dish is perfect for meal prepping or a quick dinner option, but it’s always wise to watch the portion sizes if you are trying to manage your calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, onion)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for family dinners or leftovers for lunch!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Veggies?
1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step is key to a crispy finish!
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken and mixed vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
3. Place the chicken and vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
6. Serve warm as a healthy meal or with a side of rice or quinoa. Enjoy!
Delicious Variations and Tips
– Want to spice things up? Feel free to add your favorite hot sauce or some chili flakes for a little kick.
– You can also try different herbs and spices to mix things up! Try Italian seasoning, curry powder, or even a hint of lemon zest.
– For a heartier meal, serve over a base of grains like quinoa, brown rice, or even a bed of mixed greens. Go wild!
I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish; truly, you won’t regret it! It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. If you do try it, please send me your feedback—I’d love to hear how your version turned out! Happy cooking!