Craving something tasty and quick to make?
Look no further! This easy and flavorful orange chicken in the air fryer is just what you need. Imagine juicy pieces of chicken, coated in a tangy, sweet, and citrusy sauce that just melts in your mouth.
It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with a homemade takeout classic!
Recipe Overview
- Number of Diners: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss them in cornstarch until coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the coated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Once the chicken is crispy and golden, transfer it to a bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
- Return the coated chicken to the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
- Serve the orange chicken with steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
The Benefits
Experience the joy of a healthier version of a classic takeout dish, all thanks to the air fryer! With less oil and all the flavor, you won’t have to compromise on taste or health.
Recommendations and Advice
For an extra citrus zing, add some orange zest to the sauce. Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your liking. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the chicken pieces in the air fryer to prevent burning.
Curiosities
Did you know that orange chicken is said to have originated in Hunan, China, and is a popular American-Chinese dish? It’s truly amazing how a single recipe can bridge different cultures!
