Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe: A Healthier Take on a Takeout

If you’re a fan of takeout-inspired meals but want a healthier and more cost-effective option, this Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe is the perfect solution. Bursting with vibrant flavors and a crispy texture, this dish replicates the magic of restaurant-style orange chicken with less oil and fewer calories. With the air fryer, you can achieve the crispy coating you crave without the guilt, all while saving time and effort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Nutritional Information

This recipe provides a balanced and healthier alternative to traditional orange chicken. Here’s the breakdown per serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Cuisine: Asian, American-Chinese
• Course: Main Dish
• Servings: 4

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 medium oranges)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger (optional for extra zing)
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Saucepan
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated.
3. Toss the egg-coated chicken in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off excess flour.
4. Place the coated chicken pieces on a tray or plate, ensuring they don’t stick together.

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2. Air Fry the Chicken:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer’s size.
4. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

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3. Make the Orange Sauce:

1. While the chicken cooks, prepare the orange sauce.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

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4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

1. Once all the chicken pieces are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated.

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5. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a finishing touch.
2. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

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Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers are revolutionizing home cooking by offering a healthier way to enjoy fried foods. By using little to no oil, air fryers reduce the calorie content of your favorite crispy dishes while still delivering the same satisfying crunch. This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe is a testament to how you can enjoy indulgent flavors with a fraction of the guilt.

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Tips for Success:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking in small batches ensures each piece of chicken gets evenly crispy.
2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or sugar.
3. Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the sauce a vibrant and natural flavor.
4. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

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This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Recipe combines convenience, flavor, and health into one incredible dish. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick, delicious dinner, this recipe is a must-try!