Gluten Free Asian Chicken and Broccoli Air Fryer Recipe for Busy Moms
As a busy mom, finding the time to prepare a wholesome meal can often feel like an uphill battle. Between juggling work, school activities, and everything else life throws at you, it’s easy to resort to takeout. However, this gluten free Asian chicken and broccoli air fryer recipe is here to save the day! Quick to make and full of flavor, this dish will satisfy your cravings and nourish your family.
This recipe is not only gluten free but also packed with protein and fiber. The air fryer cooks the chicken to perfection while keeping the broccoli crisp and vibrant. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup time—perfect for those busy weeknights! Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with gluten-free soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- While the chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Add the broccoli florets to the bowl with the marinated chicken. Toss to combine.
- Place the chicken and broccoli mixture in the air fryer basket. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Air fry the chicken and broccoli for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, and the broccoli should be tender yet crisp.
- Once cooked, remove the basket from the air fryer and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
- Serve hot over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Why Choose Air Frying?
Air frying has become a popular cooking method for many reasons. It allows you to enjoy crispy, delicious food without the excess oil typically used in deep frying. With the air fryer, you can achieve that satisfying crunch while keeping your meals healthier. Plus, it significantly reduces cooking time, making it an ideal choice for busy families.
Meal Prep Tips
To make your weeknight dinners even easier, consider meal prepping this gluten free Asian chicken and broccoli ahead of time. Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also chop your broccoli in advance and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, just toss everything in the air fryer, and dinner will be ready in no time!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken and broccoli over steamed rice or fluffy quinoa for a wholesome and filling meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice. It absorbs the flavors beautifully!
- Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can complement the dish nicely.
- Spring Rolls: For a fun twist, serve with gluten-free spring rolls on the side for extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the air fryer. This will prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.
What if I don’t have gluten-free soy sauce?
You can substitute gluten-free soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is a great alternative and adds a slightly sweeter flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered safe to eat. A meat thermometer is a handy tool to ensure perfect doneness.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Final Thoughts
This gluten free Asian chicken and broccoli air fryer recipe is a game changer for busy moms looking for quick, healthy meals. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor that your entire family will love. Try it out tonight and see how easy it is to create a delicious, nutritious dinner in a flash!
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your meal and share your experience with friends. Happy cooking!
