Transform your orange chicken with a revolutionary twist: the air fryer method

Craving that tangy, crispy orange chicken without the deep-frying mess? Look no further! This blog post will guide you through a foolproof method for making mouthwatering orange chicken in your air fryer. Get ready to savor this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gather Your Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the beaten egg.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and flour.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the cornstarch mixture, coating them evenly.

Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.

Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl.
2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the orange chicken immediately, garnished with fresh orange slices or chopped green onions for a vibrant presentation. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• To achieve extra crispy chicken, double-coat the pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• If the chicken is not crispy enough after 12 minutes, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• For a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
• For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Dietary Modifications

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cornstarch and flour.
• Dairy-free: Omit the egg wash.
• Low-carb: Reduce the amount of cornstarch and brown sugar.

Final Note

Making orange chicken with an air fryer is a game-changer that allows you to enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home without the guilt or mess. With its crispy chicken, tangy orange sauce, and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and embark on this culinary journey today!

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or egg rolls.

3. How can I store leftover orange chicken?

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the orange sauce up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.

5. What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can also make this recipe in a deep fryer or on a stovetop. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.