Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy chicken with a vibrant orange glaze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also a healthier twist on a beloved classic. With the air fryer method, you can enjoy tender and juicy chicken without the excess oil found in traditional frying.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Orange Chicken
There are numerous reasons to adore this Air Fryer Orange Chicken. First, it offers a quick cooking time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Second, the air fryer method ensures a crispy texture without the added calories from frying. Third, it’s packed with flavors from fresh orange juice and zest, garlic, and ginger, creating an irresistible aroma. Fourth, it’s a healthier option compared to takeout, fitting into a low-calorie or gluten-free diet. Fifth, this dish is versatile, allowing for various adaptations, such as adding broccoli for a complete meal. Lastly, it’s an easy orange chicken air fryer recipe that anyone can master, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
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:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- If you want to make a healthy orange chicken in the air fryer, use less sugar in the marinade.
- For a crunchy texture, consider tossing the chicken in cornstarch before marinating.
Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Orange Chicken
This Air Fryer Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or on a bed of quinoa for a nutritious twist. Adding broccoli not only enhances the meal’s nutritional value but also provides a great color contrast. You can even drizzle some air fryer orange chicken sauce recipe over the top for added flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Orange Chicken
To store leftover Air Fryer Orange Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use the air fryer set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a crispy finish. This method is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Orange Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
The secret lies in marinating the chicken adequately and ensuring the air fryer is preheated. This ensures even cooking and a delightful crispy texture, giving you that tender orange chicken air fryer style that’s so satisfying.
Can I make Air Fryer Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cook it fresh for the best flavor and texture when you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Also, be careful not to skip the marinating step, as it significantly enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Variations of Air Fryer Orange Chicken You Can Try
For a different twist, you can incorporate various vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. If you’re looking for a low-calorie air fryer orange chicken, use skinless chicken breasts and reduce the sugar in the glaze. You might even try an air fryer sweet and sour chicken variation, combining pineapple with the orange for a tropical flair.
Delicious Air Fryer Orange Chicken in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and indulgent dish that combines crispy chicken with a vibrant orange glaze, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.
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
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Leave a Reply