Crispy Air Fryer Orange Chicken
This crispy air fryer orange chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful orange sauce, making it a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for spraying
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 medium orange zest
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water for sauce thickening
- sesame seeds for garnish
- chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Dip chicken pieces in beaten eggs, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly coat air fryer basket with vegetable oil and arrange chicken in a single layer.
- Spray tops of chicken with oil and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar over medium heat.
- Bring to a simmer, then stir in cornstarch-water mixture and cook until thickened.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and pour orange sauce over it, tossing gently.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Enjoy with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Notes
Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.