Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe

Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthier Than Takeout

Orange chicken is a beloved dish known for its crispy texture and zesty, sweet-savory sauce. Traditionally deep-fried, this air fryer version delivers the same irresistible crunch while using significantly less oil. With a balance of tangy citrus, soy sauce, and a touch of heat, this homemade orange chicken is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – Uses an air fryer instead of deep-frying, cutting down on oil without sacrificing crunch.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold, Fresh Flavors – Homemade orange sauce made with real citrus gives a fresher taste than store-bought versions.
• Crispy Without the Guilt – Achieves that restaurant-style crispiness with a fraction of the fat.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil

For the Orange Sauce:

• ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Extra orange zest

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat evenly in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
4. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and air fry for another 3-5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Transfer the crispy chicken to a large bowl.
2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and extra orange zest if desired.
2. Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

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Recipe Variations

• Spicier Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of Sriracha to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Keto-Friendly – Replace cornstarch with almond flour and swap honey for a sugar-free sweetener.
• Extra Crispy – Double-coat the chicken by dipping it in egg and cornstarch a second time before air frying.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken crispy when adding the sauce?

To maintain crispiness, toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

What if I don’t have fresh oranges?

You can use bottled orange juice, but fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, there are no dairy ingredients in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and toss them together just before serving.

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add a bit more cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and simmer until thickened.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, substitute the egg with a mix of 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk for a similar coating effect.

What can I serve with orange chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding.

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Conclusion

This Air Fryer Orange Chicken recipe brings you all the flavors of takeout without the excess oil or hassle. It’s crispy, tangy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative or just want a fast and delicious homemade dish, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy it with rice, veggies, or on its own, and savor the bold flavors with every bite!

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