Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marination time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 300
• Protein: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 32 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 10 grams
• Sodium: 450 mg

Why Make This Air Fryer Orange Chicken

If you’re searching for a delightful blend of sweet and savory, this Air Fryer Orange Chicken is just what you need. The succulent chicken pieces bask in a zesty marinade featuring fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and a hint of honey. Air frying this dish allows you to enjoy that crispy texture without excessive oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fried orange chicken. Plus, with a cook time of just 15 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or an easy meal prep option.

How to Make Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  In a bowl, mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch. This aromatic marinade will create a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile for the chicken.

• Step 2: Mixing

  Add the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring that they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

• Step 3: Cooking

  Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, toss the marinated chicken in vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

• Step 4: Finishing

  After the cooking time, check for doneness. The chicken should be cooked through and have a crispy exterior. Remove it from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful and appetizing finish.

How to Serve Air Fryer Orange Chicken

This Air Fryer Orange Chicken is perfect served over steamed rice or alongside a fresh salad. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the vibrant flavors of the orange sauce, creating a pleasing meal that will impress your family and friends. For a special touch, consider serving it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.

How to Store Air Fryer Orange Chicken

To store leftover Air Fryer Orange Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, it’s best to use the air fryer or oven to retain that crispy texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Orange Chicken

1. Marination Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes—up to several hours—can enhance the flavors even more.
2. Cut Uniformly: Ensure all chicken pieces are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
3. Do Not Overcrowd: Air fry the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey to suit your sweetness preference.
5. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor—dried versions won’t provide the same punch.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Orange Tofu: Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option that’s just as delicious.
• Citrus Mix: Combine orange juice with lemon or lime juice for a more complex citrus flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken breast?
  Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but make sure to defrost it completely before marinating.

• What can I use instead of soy sauce?
  For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

• Is it necessary to use cornstarch?
  Cornstarch helps create a crispy coating. If you prefer not to use it, you can omit it, but the texture will vary.

• How do I know when the chicken is done?
  The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safely consumed.

• Can I double the recipe?
  Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to cook in batches in the air fryer to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Making Air Fryer Orange Chicken is simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight family dinner or when you’re craving a taste of something sweet and savory. With its bright flavors and crispy texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious experience of homemade orange chicken without the guilt!

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 45
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

Enjoy a healthier take on orange chicken with this air fryer recipe that blends sweet and savory flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and coat well. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss the marinated chicken in vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper. Place evenly in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Check for doneness, ensuring the chicken is cooked through with a crispy exterior. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate longer for enhanced flavor; air fry in batches to maintain crispiness.

• Prep Time: 30
• Cook Time: 15
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg