Air fryer orange chicken: the perfect weeknight meal in minutes!

Craving the irresistible flavors of orange chicken but want to skip the deep-frying mess? Look no further than this tantalizing orange chicken recipe in air fryer. With its crispy exterior and tantalizing sweet and tangy sauce, this dish will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Whisk the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and orange juice.
3. Dip and Coat: Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then roll it in the cornstarch mixture to coat thoroughly.
4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Shake the basket halfway through cooking.
6. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, brown sugar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
7. Toss and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and toss it in the prepared orange sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken after tossing it in the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory flavor.

Tips for Perfection:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as fried rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of orange chicken recipe in air fryer (approximately 4 pieces) contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

The Final Verdict:

This orange chicken recipe in air fryer is a culinary masterpiece that combines the crispy texture of deep-fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of orange sauce. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or a satisfying meal any time of day. So grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this delightful treat!

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Simply thaw it completely before coating and cooking it.

2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

3. Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat before using it.

4. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can cook the chicken in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

5. Can I use different citrus fruits in the sauce?
Yes, you can use lemon juice, grapefruit juice, or a combination of citrus juices for a unique flavor.