Crispy Asian Orange Chicken Made In The Air Fryer For Easy Meals
If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and easy meal that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this crispy Asian orange chicken made in the air fryer. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer ensures that the chicken turns out crispy without the excess oil, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
This orange chicken is coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy orange sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and set them aside.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; you may need to do this in batches.
- Spray the chicken lightly with vegetable oil spray to promote crispiness.
- Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the orange sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once simmering, let the sauce cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
- After 10 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If not done, continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and transfer it to a large bowl.
- Pour the orange sauce over the crispy chicken and toss until all pieces are coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
- Enjoy your homemade crispy Asian orange chicken!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Orange Chicken
To ensure that your orange chicken turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful, consider the following tips:
- Make sure to cut your chicken into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
- Allow the chicken to marinate in the egg mixture for a few minutes before coating it in the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster.
2. Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
While cornstarch helps to create a crispier texture, you can substitute it with additional flour if you don’t have any on hand.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce to make a gluten-free version of this dish.
4. What can I serve with orange chicken?
This crispy Asian orange chicken pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This crispy Asian orange chicken made in the air fryer is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, it brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, and the air fryer makes it a breeze to prepare.
So next time you’re in the mood for something delicious and easy, remember this recipe. Your family will thank you, and you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this crispy, golden-orange chicken!
