Orange Chicken In The Air Fryer: A Step-by-step Guide On How To Make The Perfect Dish

Craving the delectable crunch and tangy sweetness of orange chicken but without the guilt of deep-frying? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will guide you through the effortless process of creating restaurant-quality orange chicken in the convenience of your air fryer. Follow these simple steps and tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, ensure you have these essential ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned chicken pieces in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Orange Sauce

While the chicken is air frying, prepare the delectable orange sauce:

1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and garlic powder.

2. Heat the Sauce: Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Toss the Chicken in Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the thickened orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.

2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top of the orange chicken and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use fresh orange juice: The vibrant flavor and sweetness of fresh orange juice will elevate your dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep a close eye on the chicken during air frying to prevent dryness.
• Adjust the sauce’s sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey to taste.
• Add a touch of heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce.
• Serve with a variety of sides: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or even a side salad.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy this delectable dish using other cooking methods:

• Pan-Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown.
• Deep-Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C) and fry the chicken pieces until cooked through.
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the chicken pieces on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes.

The Bottom Line

Making orange chicken with an air fryer is an effortless and satisfying culinary experience. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Embrace the convenience of your air fryer and enjoy the crispy crunch and tangy sweetness of orange chicken anytime you crave it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and air frying.

2. What type of oil is best for air frying orange chicken?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices for air frying due to their high smoke points.

3. How do I store leftover orange chicken?
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the orange sauce up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before using it.

5. What are some variations to this recipe?
You can add chopped pineapple or bell peppers to the sauce for a sweeter or more savory flavor. You can also adjust the amount of soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.