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Crispy Air Fryer Orange Chicken

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A delightful fusion of crispy chicken enveloped in a luscious orange sauce that’s perfect for busy evenings and dinner parties alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Avocado or olive oil spray
  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1–2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (optional, for finish)
  • Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
  • Steamed broccoli or snap peas
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until each piece is well coated.
  2. Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Air-fry the chicken: Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Mist the tops lightly with oil. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Make the orange sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and simmer for about 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in toasted sesame oil for a wonderful finish.
  6. Toss and serve: Once the chicken is crispy, transfer it to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well-coated. Serve it over your choice of rice, with steamed broccoli on the side and garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

Ensure chicken pieces are well-dried before coating for the crispiest results. Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes can enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.tastysavvy.com/crispy-air-fryer-orange-chicken/