Excited to share one of my favorite recipes, one packed with flavors, the crispy air fryer orange chicken, which has been a game changer for easy weeknight dinners that my whole family loves. This recipe brings you all the savory-sweet goodness with less oil and fuss.
Why make the Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
This air fryer version of the classic dish cuts down on oil without compromising the crispy texture and sticky-sweet sauce you know and love from dishes like Panda Express’s orange chicken. It’s a healthier, quicker alternative that’s just as indulgent.
PRO TIPS for the Best Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe
- Ensure chicken pieces are dried with paper towels for maximum crispiness.
- Air fry in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crisping.
- Add sauce to the chicken immediately after air frying for the best flavor absorption.
- Make sure to use fresh orange juice for the best result.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that crisps well in the air fryer. I prefer boneless chicken breast but you can substitute with chicken thighs, or skinless chicken.
- Corn starch: Creates a light, crispy coating when air-fried.
- Egg: Binds the cornstarch to the chicken for a perfect crust.
- Orange Juice: Fresh juice gives the sauce a vibrant, citrusy base.
- Brown Sugar & Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the vinegar and zest. Substitute with hiney if you do not like brown sugar.
- Soy Sauce: Brings umami and depth to the orange chicken sauce.
- Garlic Powder & Ginger: Provide a warm, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Introduce a spicy kick to complement the sweet sauce.
- Orange Zest: Enhances the sauce with fresh, zesty notes.
- Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar.
- Cold water.
How to make the Best Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe
Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into equal sizes; I prefer using cubed chicken.
- Mix chicken pieces in salt and half the cornstarch in a medium bowl until well coated.
- In a shallow bowl, prepare the egg mixture, Use tongs to dip the chicken in the then dredge in remaining cornstarch.
- Line your air fryer with a baking sheet to prevent stitching.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Once heated, arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through until golden brown.
Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes; simmer for 3 minutes.
- Whisk together the remaining cornstarch and cold water to make cornstarch slurry; stir into the sauce and continue to cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked chicken with the orange sauce, coating thoroughly. Reserve some sauce for drizzling over rice if desired.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Orange Chicken Nutrition
This recipe is lower in fat than traditional deep-fried chicken dishes and provides protein, making it a balanced option for a nutritious meal.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Though the air fryer provides the best balance of ease and health, this recipe can also be adapted for baking or shallow frying, depending on your preference.
Air-Fried Orange Chicken recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into bite-size pieces or 1 – 2”
- 1 Egg whisked
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- Salt to taste.
- 1 cup Orange Juice
- 1/3 Tablespoons Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar
- 1 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon Ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder or 2 garlic cloves finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
- Orange Zest from 1 orange
- 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp Cold water
- Sliced Green Onions
- Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into equal sized, I prefer using cubed chicken.
- Toss chicken pieces in salt and half the cornstarch in medium bowl, mix until well coated.
- In a shallow bowl, prepare the egg mixture, Use tongs to dip the chicken in the then dredge in remaining cornstarch.
- Line your air fryer with baking sheet to prevent stitcking.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Once heated, arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through until golden brown.
- Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes; simmer for 3 minutes.
- Whisk together the remaining cornstarch and cold water to make cornstarch slurry; stir into the sauce and continue to cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest.
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked chicken with the orange sauce, coating thoroughly. Reserve some sauce for drizzling over rice if desired.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, though fresh juice is recommended for the best flavor.
Is it gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce with tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious air fryer orange chicken over a bed of white rice, cauliflower rice, or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor of this easy air fryer orange chicken, a sure family favorite for any busy weeknights as a delicious meal.
Have a look at the collection of air-fryer recipes on the blog.
Air-fried whole Chicken
Air fryer Doughnut recipe
Air fryer Salmon steak and bites
About the Author
I am Seun, and I love to share my first-hand experience using multiple air fryers. Stick around for yummy delicacies made from the air fryer and many amazing tips on using your newfound Kitchen appliance – the air fryer!
About the Author
I am Seun, and I love to share my first-hand experience using multiple air fryers. Stick around for yummy delicacies made from the air fryer and many amazing tips on using your newfound Kitchen appliance – the air fryer!
