- Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately when placed inside, leading to a crispier exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Season the Vegetables: In another large mixing bowl, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the vegetables until they are well coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange the Vegetables: Spread the seasoned vegetables out evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer. This will make it easier to transfer them to the air fryer basket.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on the outside.
- Cook the Vegetables: After flipping the chicken, add the seasoned vegetables to the air fryer basket alongside the chicken. If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to cook the vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
- Plate the Dish: Slice the chicken breasts and serve them alongside the roasted vegetables. Drizzle any remaining juices from the air fryer over the top for added flavor.
- Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables for a zesty finish.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken and Vegetables:
- Cut Evenly: Ensure that the vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces to promote even cooking.
- Space Out the Food: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure that the hot air can circulate around all sides of the food, leading to a crispier texture.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts or the size of your vegetables, you may need to adjust the cooking times slightly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will yield the best flavor and texture, so try to use the freshest produce available.
Variations:
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a more aromatic chicken.
- Lemon-Garlic Chicken: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and minced garlic for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken and Vegetables: Add extra cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Chicken and Vegetables is a versatile dish that’s not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. With minimal prep time and the quick cooking power of the air fryer, you can enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked chicken and the robust flavors of roasted vegetables—all with the convenience of your air fryer!