There is something wonderfully satisfying about a quick, flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly, and this Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe delivers just that. Combining tender, juicy chicken cubes with vibrant red and green bell peppers, all coated in a savory soy-based marinade with hints of garlic, onion, and a touch of sweetness, this dish is a perfect weeknight crowd-pleaser. Using an air fryer means the chicken gets beautifully cooked with a slight crispness while keeping everything juicy inside, and the peppers maintain just the right amount of crunch and color. This recipe is truly a gem when you want a healthy, colorful dish that does not demand hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the key to nailing this Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, bringing balance to flavor, texture, and visual appeal in the finished dish. From the juicy chicken breast to the crunchy bell peppers and the marinade’s rich blend of sauces and spices, everything blends together for a deliciously well-rounded bite.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: The lean protein centerpiece that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- 1 small red bell pepper: Adds sweetness, crunch, and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1 small green bell pepper: Provides crisp texture and a slightly bitter contrast to the red pepper’s sweetness.
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce: Brings salty umami that seasons the chicken and peppers perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and subtle tang for a richer marinade.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps carry the marinade flavors and ensures a nice sear in the air fryer.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty, nutty note that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers aromatic garlic essence without the fuss of fresh cloves.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle savory background layer to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt: Balances flavors and seasons the chicken and peppers evenly.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and sharpness.
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings a mild kick to awaken the palate.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness that melts on top at the end for a delightful finish.
- Cooked white rice, for serving (optional): Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices and making the meal more filling.
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, which is about 200 degrees Celsius. Give it about 5 minutes to preheat—this ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that beautiful, slightly crispy crust that makes this recipe so irresistible.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken and Peppers
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breast and dice it into 1-inch cubes so every bite is tender and easy to eat. For the peppers, carefully remove seeds and ribs, then chop them into pieces the same size as the chicken—this helps everything cook at the same rate and keeps the perfect texture balance between juicy chicken and crisp peppers.
Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes and pepper pieces with the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat evenly and allow these flavors to meld together. Marinading right before cooking keeps it fresh, but you could let it sit a bit longer if time permits for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Spray the air fryer basket with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the chicken and pepper mixture out in a single layer—crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Cook for 6 minutes, then give the basket a good shake to turn the pieces for even color and cooking. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to confirm it’s safely cooked and juicy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
While the dish is still hot, sprinkle the brown sugar over the chicken and peppers, then toss gently to let it dissolve and glaze the ingredients with a subtle caramelized sweetness. This touch elevates the dish beautifully. Serve it over warm white rice if you like, making it a complete, comforting meal.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really bring this dish to life. Sprinkle chopped fresh green onions or cilantro on top for a fresh, slightly herbal contrast. A few toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sesame oil infusion. These simple touches make it look and taste restaurant-quality.
Side Dishes
While the recipe shines on its own, pairing it with simple side dishes enhances the meal. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the savory juices. Alternatively, quinoa or cauliflower rice works well for a lighter option. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness and add freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and peppers wrapped in warm tortillas or flatbreads to make handheld wraps. Top with a drizzle of spicy mayo or a squeeze of lime for extra zing. You can also turn it into a colorful grain bowl layered with avocado slices, sliced radishes, and pickled onions for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and peppers hold up well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently to preserve tenderness.
Reheating
To keep that fresh-off-the-air-fryer texture, reheat leftovers in your air fryer at a lower temperature, around 350°F, for 3 to 5 minutes. This method helps maintain the slight crispness of the chicken and peppers while warming it evenly. Alternatively, the stovetop or microwave works as well, but the air fryer step is a game-changer.
FAQs
Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! While red and green bell peppers provide great color and sweetness, you can experiment with yellow, orange, or even poblano peppers for different flavor profiles. Just keep the pieces similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken and peppers?
Marinating helps intensify the flavors and tenderize the chicken, but if you’re short on time, tossing everything together right before cooking still yields tasty results. For best taste, even 15-20 minutes of marinating makes a difference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the flavor without concern.
What temperature should the chicken reach to be safe?
Chicken should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s safe to eat and perfectly juicy. Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to check.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
You can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and tenderness. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the air fryer and test for doneness accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that is sure to become one of your weeknight go-tos. This Air Fryer Chicken and Peppers Recipe combines speed, flavor, and simplicity like very few recipes do. Give it a try—you may just find yourself making it again and again for its unbeatable taste and effortless prep. Happy cooking!
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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 that combines tender chicken breast with colorful bell peppers, marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this dish cooks briskly in the air fryer for a crispy, juicy result served over white rice.
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 your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the correct temperature before cooking.
- Prepare Ingredients: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and slice them into 1-inch cubes. Remove seeds and ribs from the bell peppers, then cut the peppers into 1-inch pieces.
- Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes and bell peppers with the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, coarse salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken and pepper mixture in a single layer in the basket to ensure even cooking. Cook for 6 minutes, then shake the basket to redistribute the ingredients. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Finish and Serve: While the chicken and peppers are still hot, sprinkle the brown sugar over them and toss gently to dissolve the sugar and add a subtle sweetness. Serve the dish over cooked white rice if desired for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Leftover chicken and peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetener option.
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
