Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe: The Easiest Way To Cook This Delicious Dish!

Craving the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! With its ability to circulate hot air, the air fryer offers a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the simple steps of how to cook orange chicken air fryer, ensuring a crispy, juicy, and mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Air Fry Again: Return the chicken to the air fryer basket and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the orange chicken with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This will ensure a tender and juicy result.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces: This will help it cook evenly in the air fryer.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Leave some space between the chicken pieces to promote even air circulation.
• Preheat the air fryer: This will help the chicken cook faster and more evenly.
• Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking: This will prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even browning.
• Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces.
• Make sure the chicken is cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).

Variations on the Classic

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Substitute 2 tablespoons of honey for the brown sugar in the orange sauce for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.
• Teriyaki Orange Chicken: Replace the soy sauce in the orange sauce with teriyaki sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.

Healthier Options

• Use whole wheat flour: Instead of all-purpose flour, use whole wheat flour for a healthier coating.
• Reduce the sugar: Cut back on the brown sugar or honey in the orange sauce to reduce the sugar content.
• Use vegetable broth: Substitute vegetable broth for the orange juice in the orange sauce for a lower-calorie option.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Dinner with Air Fryer Orange Chicken

With its crispy texture, tangy orange sauce, and customizable variations, this air fryer orange chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this detailed guide will empower you to create a delicious and satisfying meal in your air fryer. Experiment with the variations and healthy options to tailor the dish to your preferences. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of orange chicken without the guilt!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. How do I make the orange sauce thicker?

You can thicken the orange sauce by adding 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch mixed with water to the saucepan and simmering until thickened.

3. Can I air fry the orange chicken without sauce?

Yes, you can air fry the chicken without sauce for a crispy and savory alternative.

4. What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

5. Can I reheat orange chicken?

Yes, you can reheat orange chicken in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.