Air Fryer Broccoli (Tender & Crisp!) (VIDEO)

My #1 Key Tip to Tender and Crisp Broccoli

I never liked cooking broccoli in the air fryer until I realized why – it was always too dry! That’s how I came up with my key tip for making crisp and tender broccoli that’s not dried out in the air fryer – steam! I never see this tip talked about but I promise it will change how your Air Fryer Broccoli comes out.

After seasoning the broccoli florets, add either lemon juce or water – in the air fryer, this tiny bit of liquid will help steam the broccoli first before evaporating, making it more tender. Once the liquid has evaporated, the oil will help crisp up the broccoli. This is how you get tender and crisp broccoli made in the air fryer!

Another air fryer vegetable recipe I love is Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts!

Ingredients

Refer to the recipe card for the full list of ingredients and measurements!

• broccoli florets – I always recommend cutting the broccoli yourself, so you can cut it into the size and shape you prefer. For this recipe, I used 1-2″ florets. If you love broccoli, make my Beef and Broccoli or Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo.
• avocado oil – this is my go-to neutral oil. You can also use olive oil for this recipe.
• Juice of 1 lemon or 1 tablespoon of water – you can use either, depending on whether you prefer the flavor of lemon and you have it on hand.

Note on seasonings – you can adjust the seasonings to your exact preference! Don’t feel limited to the ingredients I included in the recipe. Other herbs or spices that would work well are: chili flakes, dried oregano or thyme, or smoked paprika.

For proteins made in the air fryer, try my Air Fryer Chicken Wings, Air Fryer Salmon, Air Fryer Chicken Breast, or Air Fryer Chicken Thighs!

Recipe Instructions

1. Season the Broccoli

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Add the broccoli to a large bowl and drizzle with the oil. Sprinkle on the seasoning mix and mix until combined.

Now here’s the secret for making the broccoli tender on the inside but crisp on the outside! Add the lemon juice (or water) and mix in with the broccoli. While the broccoli cooks initially, the liquid will steam the inside of the broccoli then evaporate leaving the oil to crisp it up beautifully in the air fryer.

Transfer to the air fryer basket in a single layer.

2. Air Fry the Broccoli

Air fry the broccoli at 400F for 8 minutes. Shake the broccoli in the basket and air fry for another 4-6 minutes until crispy.

Serve it with your favorite protein or main course – in my household, broccoli is the perfect side of any dish! I love this alongside Pan Seared Salmon, Baked Chicken Breast or Baked Chicken Thighs, and my favorite Pan Seared Steak!

If you want more vegetables, make Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Roasted Cauliflower, Roasted Green Beans or Honey Roasted Carrots!

Storage, Reheating, and Make Ahead Tips

Store any leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The broccoli will shrivel and lose it’s crispiness as it is stored in the refrigerator – this is normal. Heat it up quickly in the microwave or in the air fryer at 350F for 5-6 minutes.

If you tried this Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below!