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Air Fryer Orange Chicken

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Crispy air fryer chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade orange sauce for a lighter version of the classic takeout favorite.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. Prepare a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and cornstarch in separate bowls.
  3. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it with cornstarch.
  5. Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray with cooking oil.
  6. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
  7. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  8. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  9. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
  10. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil.
  11. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and toss with the warm orange sauce until evenly coated.
  12. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for juicier results.
  • Add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce for a spicy version.
  • Fresh orange juice provides the best flavor for the sauce.
  • Serve the sauce on the side if you want the chicken to stay extra crispy.
  • Steamed broccoli or snap peas make great additions for extra vegetables.
  • The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before tossing with the chicken.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/air-fryer-orange-chicken/