1. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
- In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken:
- Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to all sides.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken Bites:
- Place the breaded chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Prepare the Broccoli:
- While the chicken is cooking, toss the broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Add Broccoli to the Air Fryer:
- Once you flip the chicken bites, add the seasoned broccoli florets to the air fryer basket around the chicken.
7. Continue Cooking:
- Air fry the chicken and broccoli together for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly charred at the edges.
8. Serve:
- Remove the chicken bites and broccoli from the air fryer.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken bites are in a single layer for even crisping.
- Breading Technique: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
- Adjustments: Customize the seasoning of the breadcrumbs or add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these air fryer chicken bites and broccoli with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice or serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added zest.
Conclusion:
This air fryer chicken bites with broccoli recipe offers a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s both crispy and nutritious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple family meal, it showcases the versatility and convenience of cooking with an air fryer. Enjoy the delicious combination of crunchy chicken and tender broccoli in every bite!