Air Fryer Orange Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that’s both sweet and savory, look no further than this delightful Air Fryer Orange Chicken. This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of orange and soy sauce together in a crispy, golden-brown chicken dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner. With the convenience of the air fryer, you can achieve that coveted crunch without the added oil typically required for frying. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely win over your taste buds!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Air Fryer Orange Chicken truly special is its balance of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken breast, coated in a crispy crust, pairs beautifully with the bright citrusy glaze. Unlike traditional orange chicken recipes that can be heavy and greasy, this version is lightened up while maintaining all the savory and sweet notes you love. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

What Goes Into Air Fryer Orange Chicken

To create this mouthwatering dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound chicken breast – chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger – minced
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
• 1 large orange – juiced and zested
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Kitchen Gear Checklist

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following kitchen gear:

• Air Fryer – the star of the show for that crispy finish.
• Mixing Bowls – for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – precision is key for flavor.
• Whisk – to mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – for tossing the chicken and sauce together.

Air Fryer Orange Chicken Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chopped chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup of soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour (or panko bread crumbs) and cornstarch. Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and then toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are well-coated.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior when cooking the chicken.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Orange Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the orange sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the 1/3 cup soy sauce, orange marmalade, juice and zest of one orange, hot sauce, and white vinegar. Stir until the marmalade is melted and the mixture is well combined. In a separate small bowl, mix the 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the orange sauce over the top. Toss the chicken gently to ensure each piece is coated in the delicious sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Air Fryer Orange Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa and garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy this crispy, tangy, and utterly delightful meal!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some swaps you can make:

• Chicken Breast: Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Orange Marmalade: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the chicken isn’t crispy, make sure it’s well-coated with the flour mixture and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• For a thicker sauce, ensure you let it simmer for a few extra minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry.
• If the sauce is too sweet, add a splash more vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Shelf Life & Storage

Air Fryer Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Air Fryer Orange Chicken Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh chicken for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and coating.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in the glaze or add red pepper flakes to the chicken coating before air frying.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just coat and fry the chicken right before serving for the best results.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even a fresh vegetable stir-fry to complement the flavors.

Time to Try It

There’s no time like the present to indulge in this incredible Air Fryer Orange Chicken. With its enticing flavors and quick preparation time, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!