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Air Fryer Ranch Chicken & Veggies - Easy, Crispy, and Family-Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons (about 1/2-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra punch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for color and warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust if your ranch mix is salty)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional but brightens everything)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Nonstick spray (for the air fryer basket, if needed)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket if your air fryer tends to stick.
  2. Prep the chicken and veggies: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
  3. Toss with oil and seasoning: In a large bowl, add chicken and veggies. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle in ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated and glossy.
  4. Load the basket: Arrange in a single layer as much as possible. A little overlap is okay, but avoid packing it too tightly. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry for 12 to 16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and veggies should be tender with caramelized edges. Thicker chicken pieces may need an extra 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle with chopped herbs. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  7. Serving ideas: Spoon over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. It’s also great in a warm pita with a drizzle of ranch or yogurt sauce.