Description
A flavorful and easy recipe for Air Fryer Orange Chicken that combines sweet oranges with tender chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour mix)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 medium oranges)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (slurry)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
- Coat the chicken: Set up a breading station with 3 bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air fry the chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Make the orange sauce: In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken and toss to coat well.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for the crispiest results. Adjust spices in the orange sauce according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American