1. Preparing the Ingredients
- Cut the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into strips to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion into similar-sized pieces to promote uniform cooking.
2. Seasoning
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken and Vegetables: Place the chicken and vegetables in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mix over them. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Air Frying
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange the Ingredients in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken and vegetables in the air fryer basket. Spread them out into a single layer; you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cooking Time: Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Shake the basket or gently stir the contents halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
4. Serving
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are nicely roasted.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken and vegetables to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of freshness and color.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve hot, with a side of quinoa, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken and Vegetables
- Do Not Overcrowd: It’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Air circulation is key to achieving even cooking and a nice texture.
- Size Matters: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. Italian seasoning, curry powder, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a new dimension to the dish.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken and vegetables is a versatile dish that you can customize with different seasonings and vegetable combinations to keep it exciting. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a perfect option for a healthy and satisfying meal. The air fryer ensures that you can enjoy a delicious dinner that is both quick and easy to clean up afterward, ideal for those nights when you want a wholesome meal without the hassle.