Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe
If you are looking for a vibrant and quick meal that bursts with flavor, the Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe is a total game-changer. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with the fresh crispness of colorful bell peppers, all coated in a deliciously savory marinade that strikes the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and a hint of spice. Using the air fryer makes the cooking process super fast and clean, delivering a beautifully caramelized finish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you want a fuss-free weeknight dinner or something impressive yet simple, this recipe is exactly the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a busy day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating this flavorful dish. Each item plays its own part to add depth, texture, and richness—from the lean protein to the aromatic spices and bright bell peppers that bring color and crunch.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Offers lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- 1 small red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1 small green bell pepper: Brings a subtle bitterness and crisp texture for contrast.
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce: Provides a savory umami base to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts complexity with its tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps everything cook evenly and adds a mild fruitiness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a nutty and aromatic punch into the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers warm, garlicky goodness without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds savory depth and subtle sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Offers gentle heat and a peppery kick.
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Injects just enough spice to keep things interesting.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Perfect finishing touch, balancing saltiness with caramel notes.
- Cooked white rice, for serving (optional): Helps turn this into a hearty, satisfying meal.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and let it preheat for 5 minutes. This ensures a hot environment for perfectly seared chicken and crisply cooked peppers, locking in juices and flavor.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken and Peppers
Trim off any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes. For the peppers, remove seeds and ribs, then slice into similarly sized pieces. Uniform chunks help everything cook evenly, creating a harmonious bite every time.
Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor
In a mixing bowl, combine your chicken and peppers with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything well so each piece is beautifully coated. This marinade does the heavy lifting by infusing every bite with layers of savory, nutty, and slightly spicy notes.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Spray your air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the chicken and pepper mixture in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate effectively. Cook for 6 minutes, then give the basket a good shake to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result will be juicy chicken and tender-crisp peppers with a beautiful glaze.
Step 5: Add the Sweet Finishing Touch
While still hot, sprinkle the mixture with brown sugar and toss gently. The sugar melts into a subtle caramel glaze that cuts through the savoriness and brings everything together in perfect harmony.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish like freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds instantly elevates the dish. These finishing touches provide a burst of freshness and texture, making every bite even more delightful and visually appealing.
Side Dishes
Though the dish is wonderful on its own, serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice turns it into a filling meal. If you want to brighten things up, steamed jasmine rice or even a light quinoa salad serve beautifully as accompaniments that balance the bold flavors of the chicken and peppers.
Creative Ways to Present
This Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe also shines when served as a vibrant filling for wraps or pita pockets, paired with a cooling yogurt sauce. Or try tossing it with your favorite pasta for a quick and tasty fusion dinner. Its flexibility means you can dress it up to suit any occasion or craving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and peppers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld and develop further, making for an even tastier next-day meal that’s ready to heat and eat.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked mixture by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, ensure the mixture has cooled completely to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
For best results when reheating, warm the leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes to regain that fresh-out-of-the-fryer crispness. Alternatively, use a microwave, though you might lose some of the lovely texture from the peppers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking, you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust as needed.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating really amps up the flavor and tenderness, so I highly recommend it. Even a quick 15-20 minute soak will make a noticeable difference compared to cooking the chicken plain.
Can I cook this recipe without an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can prepare this recipe in a skillet or oven. Cook the chicken and peppers over medium-high heat in a pan until cooked through, or bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
You can absolutely dial down or skip the red pepper flakes for a milder dish. The recipe still tastes amazing with the balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors intact.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into a piece to ensure no pink remains and the juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making the Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe, especially when it comes together so quickly with mouthwatering results. It’s comforting, colorful, and packed with flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. I encourage you to try it soon—it might just become your new favorite go-to for busy nights or casual get-togethers. Enjoy the delicious magic your air fryer can create!
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Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A quick and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers recipe featuring tender chicken breast and colorful bell peppers marinated in a savory soy-based sauce, cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a healthy, easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Peppers
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 1 small green bell pepper
Marinade and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Optional
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and optimal crispness.
- Prepare Ingredients: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Remove seeds and ribs from the bell peppers and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Marinate: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes and bell peppers with low sodium soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, coarse salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything well to evenly coat the ingredients with the marinade.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken and pepper mixture in a single layer inside the basket. Cook at 390°F for 6 minutes, then shake the basket to mix. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the peppers are tender.
- Serve: While still hot, sprinkle the cooked chicken and peppers with the brown sugar and toss gently to dissolve it. Serve immediately over cooked white rice, if desired, for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Shaking the basket halfway through cooking promotes even browning and cooking.
- You can substitute bell peppers with other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
