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This Air Fryer Chicken and Eggplant recipe is a perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under 20 minutes. The air fryer makes the chicken tender and juicy, while the eggplant becomes perfectly soft and absorbs all the delicious seasonings, making this dish a go-to for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken And Eggplant

This recipe is incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.
The air fryer gives the chicken a juicy, tender texture, while the eggplant turns soft and flavorful, creating a delicious combination.
It’s a low-carb and gluten-free dish, making it a healthy choice for anyone watching their carb intake or following a gluten-free diet.
The versatility of this dish allows you to eat it plain or toss it with your favorite sauce for added flavor, making it adaptable to your personal taste preferences.
With minimal cleanup required, thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending extra time in the kitchen.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Chicken And Eggplant

Eggplant – Adds a soft, flavorful texture to the dish while absorbing the seasonings.
Chicken breast – Provides tender and juicy protein that cooks perfectly in the air fryer.
Olive oil – It helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and eggplant while adding a touch of richness.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and balances the flavors.
Garlic powder – Infuses the chicken and eggplant with a savory, aromatic flavor.
Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and rich color to the dish.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Chicken And Eggplant

Air fryer – Essential for cooking the chicken and eggplant to tender perfection with minimal oil.
Knife – For cutting the chicken and eggplant into bite-sized pieces.
Cutting board – Provides a safe and sturdy surface for chopping the ingredients.
Mixing bowl – Used to toss the chicken and eggplant with olive oil and seasonings.
Measuring spoons – For accurately measuring seasonings and olive oil, if desired.

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken And Eggplant

Start by washing and cutting the eggplant into cubes. No need to peel unless you prefer.
Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Toss the chicken and eggplant in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well-coated.
Place the seasoned chicken and eggplant into the air fryer basket.
Cook at 400°F for 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Once the air fryer finishes, check the chicken for doneness. If needed, cook for a few more minutes.
Serve the chicken and eggplant as is or with your favorite sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Air Fryer Chicken and Eggplant over cauliflower rice or white rice for a more filling meal.
Pair it with a fresh green salad with cauliflower for a light and refreshing side dish.
Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce, like buffalo or BBQ, for extra flavor.
You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a hearty, veggie-packed meal.

Tips For Success

Cut the ingredients evenly: When cutting the chicken and eggplant, try to make the pieces uniform in size. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer, so both the chicken and eggplant come out perfectly tender at the same time.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give the chicken and eggplant space to cook evenly. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.
Shake the basket halfway through: This step is key to making sure the chicken and eggplant cook evenly on all sides. Gently toss or shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to redistribute the ingredients.
Season generously: Eggplant tends to absorb flavors, so don’t be shy with the seasonings. You can always add more salt or pepper at the end, but seasoning well before cooking will make a big difference in the overall flavor.
Check for doneness: Since all air fryers vary slightly in cooking time, it’s a good idea to check the largest piece of chicken by cutting it in half. If it’s not fully cooked, simply air fry for a few more minutes until the chicken is no longer pink inside.

Variations And Substitutions

Different proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like turkey breast, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein used, as shrimp and tofu will require less cooking time than chicken.
Add more veggies: This recipe works well with other vegetables too! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix for a colorful and nutrient-packed dish. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix. This will give the chicken and eggplant a spicy kick.
Different seasonings: You can customize the flavors by using your favorite seasoning blends. For a Mediterranean twist, use oregano, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice. For an Asian-inspired flavor, add soy sauce or sesame oil along with ginger powder.
Vegan option: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cutting and air frying. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if desired.

Storage and Reheating

Storing: If you have leftovers, allow the chicken and eggplant to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Place the cooked chicken and eggplant in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use the air fryer for best results. Place the chicken and eggplant back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the texture of the eggplant may be softer.
Avoid overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out. Keep an eye on it while reheating to maintain the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like turkey, pork, or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Shrimp, for example, will cook faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Do I need to peel the eggplant?

No, there’s no need to peel the eggplant for this recipe. The skin is edible and softens during cooking. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel it before cutting it into cubes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and eggplant mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. This can save time on busy days when you want a quick dinner.

What should I do if my air fryer basket is small?

If your air fryer basket is on the smaller side, you may need to cook the chicken and eggplant in batches. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Simply cook half of the mixture at a time, keeping the first batch warm while the second cooks.

How can I add more flavor to this dish?

There are plenty of ways to enhance the flavor! You can toss the cooked chicken and eggplant with your favorite stir-fry sauce or barbecue sauce for a different taste. Or try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

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Oven Baked Spicy Buffalo Drumsticks: These oven-baked buffalo drumsticks are perfectly spicy, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips Without Breading: These air fryer chicken strips are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for a low-carb, no-breading option.

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings: These air fryer lemon pepper wings are zesty, crispy, and bursting with flavor, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack.

Other Easy Eggplant Recipes

Healthy Air Fried Chinese Eggplant: This air fried Chinese eggplant is a quick and healthy side dish with a tender texture and a deliciously savory flavor.

Quick and Easy Sauteed Eggplant Recipe: This simple sautéed eggplant recipe delivers soft, flavorful eggplant in just minutes, perfect as a side or main dish.

Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan: This air fryer eggplant parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and full of Italian flavors, without the need for deep frying.

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Hand holding the air fryer basket filled with golden-brown chicken and eggplant, showcasing the crispy result of the Air Fryer Chicken and Eggplant recipe.

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