Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a delightful combination of crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange glaze, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also caters to those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried options. With just a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Orange Chicken
There are plenty of reasons to adore this Air Fried Orange Chicken. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners. The Crispy Orange Chicken in Air Fryer is not only delicious but also a healthier option, with lower fat content compared to traditional frying methods. You will love the sweet-tangy flavor of the orange glaze, which complements the tender chicken perfectly. Plus, this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe is gluten-free!
Finally, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. With this recipe, you can create a favorite takeout dish right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Gather these items:
- 1 lb Chicken Breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Zest of 1 Fresh Orange
- 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked Pepper, to taste
- Rice, for serving
How to Make Air Fryer Orange Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a bowl, mix together fresh orange zest, fresh orange juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Step 2: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat thoroughly in the marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Step 3: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 4: Arrange marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Step 5: Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 6: Serve hot over rice, drizzling any leftover glaze on top and garnish with extra orange zest or chopped scallions.
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated for even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly coat the chicken with cornstarch before marinating.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Enjoy your Easy Orange Chicken Air Fryer over a bed of steamed rice for a classic presentation. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables to elevate your meal and balance the flavors. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb option, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Orange Chicken
To store your homemade Orange Chicken with Air Fryer Instructions, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For meal prep, you can make a larger batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. To reheat, simply place the chicken back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring it stays crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Orange Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
The secret lies in the marinade and ensuring the chicken pieces are evenly coated. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes enhances the flavor, and maintaining space in the air fryer ensures even cooking.
Can I make Air Fryer Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and cook it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or entertaining.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
Common mistakes include overcrowding the air fryer and not preheating it. Always make sure to arrange the chicken in a single layer and check the temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.
Variations of Air Fryer Orange Chicken You Can Try
Try adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or swap the orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist. You can also experiment with different marinades to create your own version of this Air Fryer Chinese Orange Chicken dish.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of oranges, visit Healthline for more information.
PrintAir Fryer Orange Chicken: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection
A quick and indulgent dish that combines crispy chicken with a vibrant orange glaze, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Zest of 1 Fresh Orange
- 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked Pepper, to taste
- Rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together fresh orange zest, fresh orange juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat thoroughly in the marinade. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot over rice, drizzling any leftover glaze on top and garnish with extra orange zest or chopped scallions.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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