Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake is the perfect weeknight meal that combines tender chicken breasts, crispy baby potatoes, and vibrant mixed vegetables all in one easy dish. The air fryer cooks everything efficiently while infusing the chicken with a luscious garlic butter flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, so there’s minimal cleanup—a win-win!
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
Preparing this recipe is simple, with just a few straightforward steps that result in a delicious meal your family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a perfect texture.
Step 2: Mixing
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
Step 3: Seasoning
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Step 4: Tossing Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes and mixed vegetables with the garlic butter mixture. Ensure everything is coated evenly for maximum flavor during cooking.
Step 5: Air Frying
Place the chicken and vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow air circulation, which contributes to the crispiness.
Step 6: Cooking
Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through and the vegetables tender.
Step 7: Serving
Serve the dish hot straight from the air fryer for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal further by pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon juice for a bright finish. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a centerpiece at a gathering with friends.
How to Store Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked traybake for up to 2 months, although the texture may vary slightly after freezing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches will yield better results.
- Experiment with your choice of vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas can also work well in this recipe.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the garlic butter mixture.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a bit of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Substitute the dried thyme with fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist.
- Creamy Sauce: Drizzle some cream or sour cream over the chicken before serving for a rich touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed and cooked through properly before serving.What vegetables can I use?
Feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy! Other great options include asparagus, green beans, or mushrooms.How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to check.Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes! You can also bake this dish in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe uses no gluten-containing ingredients, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake is a delightful and easy recipe that brings together juicy chicken, buttery garlic flavors, and colorful veggies. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish proves that a healthy, home-cooked meal doesn’t have to be complicated. Try this recipe tonight for a quick and satisfying dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the time saved while cooking!
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake
- Author: pleasecook-kachani
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious weeknight meal featuring succulent chicken breasts, crispy baby potatoes, and colorful mixed vegetables, all infused with rich garlic butter flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring well to combine.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes and mixed vegetables with the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
- Place the chicken and vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot from the air fryer for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the garlic butter mixture. Store leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg