Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Chicken in the Air Fryer

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure it’s hot when you add the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Be sure they are not overcrowded to allow air circulation. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the Cheese Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, make the cheese sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir occasionally until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add the Cheese: Once the cream cheese is melted, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the sauce warm on low heat while you prepare the broccoli.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

1. Season the Broccoli: In a bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Air Fry the Broccoli: After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside. Add the broccoli florets to the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Combine the Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheese: Once the broccoli is ready, arrange the cooked chicken breasts on a serving plate. Pour a generous amount of creamy cheese sauce over each chicken breast.
2. Serve: Top with the air-fried broccoli and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra shredded cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the sauce. Gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack would also work well.
• Extra Veggies: If you want to add more vegetables to the dish, consider sautéing mushrooms or adding some spinach to the creamy cheese sauce.
• Make it Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or top with jalapeños before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Air Fryer Convenience: The air fryer makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare with minimal clean-up. You can cook both the chicken and broccoli in the air fryer at the same time, cutting down on the overall cooking time.
• Creamy & Comforting: The rich and creamy cheese sauce elevates the chicken and broccoli into a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for cozy nights at home.
• Customizable: This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Chicken in the Air Fryer is the ultimate dinner idea when you’re short on time but still want something that feels indulgent. With tender chicken, crispy broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to make and full of flavor—what’s not to love? Try it out for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, and enjoy the effortless deliciousness of this air fryer recipe!