Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe | Orange Chicken In The Air Fryer

Treat your taste buds to the irresistible flavors of our Air Fryer Orange Chicken recipe. This delightful dish brings together the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with crispy, tender chicken. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Recipe

• Quick and Convenient. This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
• Healthier Option. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy texture of fried chicken without all the extra oil and calories.
• Kid-Friendly. Even picky eaters will love the sweet and tangy flavor of this orange chicken.

What Does Air Fryer Orange Chicken Taste Like?

Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a delightful combination of juicy chicken coated in a sticky, citrus-infused sauce. The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the sauce adds a burst of sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of garlic and ginger.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Chicken- We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful results.
• Orange Juice- Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce- Soy sauce provides a savory depth of flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
• Honey- Honey adds natural sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the orange juice.
• Red Pepper Flakes- Add a small pop of heat and color.
• Ginger and Garlic- Fresh ginger and garlic infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor and depth.
• Cornstarch- Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and creates a glossy, sticky coating on the chicken.
• Sesame Seeds- Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the finished dish.

How To Make Air Fryer Orange Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Coat with Cornstarch. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help create a crispy coating when air-fried.
3. Air Fry the Chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Orange Sauce. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until slightly thickened.
5. Coat the Chicken. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour the orange sauce over the top. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken for added flavor and crunch. Serve the Air Fryer Orange Chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a wedge of fresh orange.

Tips And Tricks

Mastering Air Fryer Orange Chicken requires attention to detail and a few tricks up your sleeve. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Preheat the Air Fryer. Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately when you place it inside, resulting in a crispier coating.
• Avoid Overcrowding. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece. Crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken.
• Make a Flavorful Sauce. The sauce is the star of this dish, so don't skimp on flavor. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking by adding more honey or orange juice. You can also add a touch of spice with red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick.

Variations

Experimenting with variations can elevate your Air Fryer Orange Chicken and add exciting new flavors. Here are some creative twists to consider:

• Sesame Orange- Add toasted sesame oil and sesame seeds to the sauce for a nutty flavor profile. Garnish with additional sesame seeds before serving for extra crunch.
• Spicy Orange- Kick up the heat by incorporating chili paste or sriracha into the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference for a fiery twist on the classic dish.
• Garlic Orange- Infuse the sauce with minced garlic or garlic powder for a savory undertone. Sauté the garlic briefly before adding the other sauce ingredients to enhance its flavor.

What To Eat With Air Fryer Orange Chicken

• Fried Rice- Whip up a batch of homemade fried rice with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce for a hearty and satisfying side dish. The savory flavors of the fried rice complement the sweetness of the orange chicken.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry- Sauté a colorful medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for a vibrant and nutritious side. The freshness of the vegetables adds texture and balance to the meal.
• Egg Rolls- Pair your orange chicken with crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables and protein for a satisfying appetizer or side dish. The crunchy texture of the egg rolls complements the tender chicken.

How Long Does It Last?

Air Fryer Orange Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and immediately after cooking for the crispiest texture. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until heated through before serving.

Can You Freeze It?

While you can freeze cooked chicken, the crispy coating may become soggy when thawed and reheated. We recommend enjoying Air Fryer Orange Chicken fresh for the best taste and texture.

More Asian-Inspired Recipes

• Bourbon Chicken
• Beef and Broccoli
• Spicy Noodles
• Air Fryer Tofu
• Honey Walnut Shrimp

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