Why this fits a family on a budget
Chicken thighs are one of the most affordable cuts available, keeping this meal well under $3 per serving while the gochujang marinade delivers restaurant-quality Korean flavor. The air fryer does the heavy lifting in under 20 minutes, making the whole dinner achievable in 45 minutes with minimal hands-on effort.
• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp ground ginger
• 12 oz frozen broccoli florets
• 2 cups long grain white rice
• 3 stalks green onions
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 spray cooking spray
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ground ginger until a smooth, thick marinade forms.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel — this helps the marinade stick better. Add them to the bowl and toss until each piece is fully coated. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature while you start the rice.
3. Combine 2 cups of rice with 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to the lowest setting, cover tightly, and cook for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and keep covered until serving.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
5. Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket — do not overlap or stack. Cook at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping each piece halfway through at the 9-minute mark.
6. Chicken is done when the outside is caramelized and deep reddish-brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer at the thickest part. If you don't have a thermometer, cut the thickest piece open — the juices should run clear with no pink inside.
7. While the chicken finishes, place frozen broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 4 minutes until bright green and tender. Season lightly with a pinch of salt.
8. Slice the cooked chicken thighs into strips. Divide rice among 4 plates, top with sliced chicken, and arrange broccoli alongside. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Contains: soy, sesame. Always double-check labels for your household's allergies.
Cost is a national-average estimate and varies by store and region.
This recipe was generated by Plento Pasto's AI from a library of family-friendly dishes and reviewed for a real photo before publishing. Cooking times, costs, and nutrition are estimates — use your judgment in the kitchen.