Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe: Easy, Quick, and Delicious

Orange chicken, a popular American-Chinese dish, consists of battered chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. This dish first gained fame in the United States and is often associated with Panda Express, a renowned fast-food chain that popularized it in the 1980s. Using fresh orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, this flavorful creation merges traditional Asian flavors with an American twist.

Air Fryer Cooking Method

Air fryer orange chicken uses an air fryer to cook chicken pieces to a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. You coat the chicken pieces in a light batter or breading and place them in the air fryer. The appliance circulates hot air around the chicken, cooking it evenly and giving it a crispy exterior. Once cooked, you toss the chicken in a homemade or store-bought orange sauce, reducing oil and calorie content compared to traditional deep-frying methods. This technique is perfect for those seeking a healthier yet still delicious option for this classic dish.

Benefits of Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Healthier Than Traditional Frying

Air fryer orange chicken offers a healthier option compared to traditional frying. By using little to no oil, you reduce calorie intake and avoid unhealthy fats. Traditional frying methods can add significant quantities of unhealthy fats while the air fryer method minimizes that. The absence of excess oil also means fewer grease splatters, making your kitchen cleaner. Nutrients stay intact in the air frying process, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value. Removing deep frying from the process ensures that your orange chicken maintains a crisp texture without the extra oil.

Time-Saving and Convenient

Preparing orange chicken in an air fryer is both time-saving and convenient. Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens because their compact size and hot air circulation speeds up the process. You can cook a batch of orange chicken in about 20 minutes whereas traditional methods might take longer. The air fryer also reduces prep time, as there’s no need to heat large amounts of oil or monitor the frying process closely. Automatic timers and temperature controls make it easy to achieve perfect results, ensuring that your orange chicken comes out crispy and flavorful every time. With easier cleanup due to fewer greasy dishes, the air fryer streamlines the cooking experience.

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken Parts

Breast and thigh meat are both great choices for air fryer orange chicken. Chicken breast offers a leaner option with lower fat content, while chicken thigh provides a juicier and more flavorful result. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.

Essential Ingredients for the Sauce

You need specific ingredients to create a flavorful orange chicken sauce. Here are key components:

• Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed orange juice for natural sweetness.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor; low-sodium variants are recommended.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess; brown sugar offers a richer taste.
• Rice Vinegar: Enhances the sauce with mild acidity.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and grated ginger offer robust flavors.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce while maintaining a glossy finish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat to the sauce.

Combine these ingredients to achieve a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in your air fryer orange chicken.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Start by selecting 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. In a bowl, whisk together 2 eggs until beaten and pour them over the chicken. Mix well to coat. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of cornstarch and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.

Making the Orange Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of sugar, 2 tbsp of rice vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp of minced ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water, then stir into the boiling sauce. Reduce the heat, letting it simmer until thickened, approximately 5 minutes. Add 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes, adjusting to your preferred spice level.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Once cooked, toss the chicken in the prepared orange sauce until fully coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Use these steps to create a delicious, healthier version of orange chicken with an air fryer.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Best Sides to Complement Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Choosing the right sides enhances the flavors of your air fryer orange chicken. Opt for steamed vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or bok choy to add a refreshing crunch. You can prepare jasmine rice or quinoa as a neutral base that soaks up the savory orange sauce. Consider serving stir-fried noodles with mixed bell peppers and onions to introduce additional textures and tastes. Pickled vegetables such as kimchi or pickled carrots offer a tangy contrast to the sweet and savory chicken. Each of these options contributes a unique element, making your meal more balanced and enjoyable.

Wine Pairings

Selecting the appropriate wine elevates the dining experience with your air fryer orange chicken. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well, offering notes of citrus that complement the orange sauce. You might find that a slightly sweet Riesling balances the dish’s acidity and spice. For red wine enthusiasts, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works perfectly, providing subtle fruitiness without overpowering the flavors. If you prefer bubbly, a dry sparkling wine like Brut Champagne adds a celebratory touch. These wine options enhance the savory-sweet profile of your air fryer orange chicken, making each bite more delightful.

Conclusion

Air fryer orange chicken offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. With the convenience and efficiency of an air fryer, you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful dish without the guilt of excess oil. Pairing it with the right sides and wine can elevate your meal, making it perfect for any occasion. Embrace this modern twist on a classic favorite and enjoy a satisfying, nutritious dinner that’s sure to impress.