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- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.
2. Prepare the Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes (if using frozen, simply thaw them in the microwave or steam them).
- In a small bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream cheese, sour cream (optional), shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mash the mixture together with a fork or spoon until creamy and well-combined. If you’d like a smoother texture, you can blend it lightly with a hand blender.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste.
3. Assemble the Dish:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the creamy broccoli and cheese mixture.
- Place the chicken back in the air fryer for an additional 3-4 minutes, just long enough to melt the cheese and warm up the broccoli topping.
4. Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.
Optional Add-Ins or Variations:
- Add Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon on top of the creamy broccoli mixture adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
- Make it a One-Pan Meal: Add a side of potatoes or sliced vegetables in the air fryer while cooking the chicken for a complete meal.
This Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Chicken is a perfect combination of comfort food and healthy ingredients. It’s a quick meal that feels indulgent but is actually packed with nutrition—thanks to the broccoli and lean chicken. Plus, the air fryer makes it so easy with minimal cleanup!
