Air Fryer Orange Chicken
By Second Helping Kitchen · Updated
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 15 min
- Total Time
- 30 min
- Servings
- 4 servings
Air fryer orange chicken gives you crisp, bite-size chicken and a glossy orange-ginger sauce without deep-frying. The chicken cooks while the sauce simmers, so dinner comes together in about 30 minutes.
The trick is to toss the cooked chicken with the sauce at the very end. That keeps the coating crisp while every piece still gets a bright, sticky glaze.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The air fryer creates golden edges with only a light coating of oil.
- Fresh orange juice and zest make the sauce taste bright instead of heavy.
- It is a weeknight-friendly dinner that works over rice or steamed vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Pat the chicken dry. In one bowl, whisk the egg. In a second bowl, stir together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Dip the chicken pieces in the egg, letting the excess drip off, then toss them in the seasoned cornstarch until lightly coated.
- 3
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and the thickest pieces reach 165°F.
- 4
While the chicken cooks, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- 5
Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
- 6
Transfer the hot chicken to a bowl and toss with just enough orange sauce to coat. Finish with scallions and sesame seeds, and serve right away.
Tips for Success
- Leave space between the chicken pieces so hot air can reach every side. Cook in two batches if your basket is crowded.
- Use a thermometer in the thickest piece rather than judging doneness by color alone.
- Keep extra sauce on the side if you expect leftovers; the coating stays crisper that way.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving. Estimated, for informational purposes only.
- Calories
- 382
- Fat
- 8g
- Saturated Fat
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 39g
- Sugar
- 20g
- Protein
- 36g
- Sodium
- 690mg
Free ebook
Get new recipes, and the ebook
New recipes as they land, plus our free weeknight cooking ebook. No daily blasts, unsubscribe in one click.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs for Air Fryer Orange Chicken?
Yes. Use boneless, skinless thighs cut into 1-inch pieces and cook until the thickest piece reaches 165°F. They may need an extra minute or two depending on size.
How do I keep air fryer orange chicken crispy?
Cook the chicken in a single layer, turn it halfway, and toss it with the sauce just before serving. Storing the sauce separately also helps leftovers keep more texture.
