How to make orange chicken in air fryer: a healthy twist on a classic

Craving the irresistible flavors of orange chicken but want a healthier alternative? Look no further than your air fryer! With its ability to crisp up food without the added calories of deep frying, the air fryer is the perfect kitchen appliance for making a healthier version of this beloved dish. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make orange chicken in your air fryer, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

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 the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket and 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, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl and pour the orange sauce over it. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

5. Serve: Serve the orange chicken immediately over rice or noodles, if desired. Garnish with fresh orange slices and green onions for extra flavor and color.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use fresh orange juice: Fresh orange juice will give your sauce the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh orange juice on hand, you can use bottled orange juice, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: When air frying the chicken, don’t overcrowd the basket. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and becoming crispy.
• Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Check the chicken for doneness before removing it from the air fryer.
• Make the sauce ahead of time: The orange sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a saucepan before tossing it with the chicken.

Healthier Alternative to Deep-Fried Orange Chicken

Traditional orange chicken is often deep-fried, which can add unnecessary calories and fat to your meal. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy all the flavors of orange chicken without the guilt. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and creating a crispy exterior without the need for excess oil.

Nutritional Information

One serving of orange chicken made with an air fryer contains approximately:

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

Final Thoughts

Making orange chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on flavor or health. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a healthier version of your favorite takeout meal that’s crispy, zesty, and sure to impress your family and friends. So next time you’re craving orange chicken, reach for your air fryer and get ready to indulge in a healthier and equally satisfying experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken can be served over rice, noodles, or vegetables. You can also garnish it with fresh orange slices and green onions.

Q: How can I make the orange chicken spicier?
A: To make the orange chicken spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.

Q: Can I make the orange chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the orange chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the air fryer or in a saucepan.

Q: What are some other variations of this recipe?
A: You can experiment with different flavors by adding pineapple chunks, honey, or sriracha to the orange sauce. You can also use different types of chicken, such as thighs or wings.