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Easy Air Fryer Chicken & Veggie Bowls - A Quick, Balanced Weeknight Win

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

Ingredients
  

  • For the chicken and veggies:
  • 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, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the bowls:
  • 3 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • Lemon or lime wedges
  • Simple sauce options (pick one):
  • Lemon-garlic yogurt: 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt + 1 tablespoon lemon juice + 1 teaspoon olive oil + 1 minced garlic clove + pinch of salt
  • Honey-chipotle: 2 tablespoons honey + 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from chipotles + 1 tablespoon lime juice + pinch of salt
  • Tahini-lime: 2 tablespoons tahini + 1 tablespoon lime juice + 1 tablespoon warm water + pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Let it heat for a full 3–5 minutes so the chicken and veggies get a good sear.
  2. Prep the chicken and veggies. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Cut the veggies into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
  3. Season everything. In a large bowl, toss chicken and veggies with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated.
  4. Air fry in batches if needed. Spread a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd or things will steam. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing halfway, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and edges are golden.
  5. Make the sauce. While the air fryer runs, whisk your chosen sauce in a small bowl. Taste and adjust salt, acid, or sweetness.
  6. Warm the base. Heat your rice, quinoa, or cauli rice. Fluff with a fork and season lightly with salt and a squeeze of citrus.
  7. Assemble the bowls. Divide the grain between bowls. Top with chicken and veggies. Spoon over sauce. Add avocado, herbs, and an extra squeeze of lemon or lime.
  8. Finish and serve. Taste and adjust. A pinch of flaky salt or a dusting of smoked paprika brings it all together.