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Crispy Air Fryer Orange Chicken

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A delightful dish combining crispy chicken with the vibrant sweetness of fresh oranges, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Avocado or olive oil spray
  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1–2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (optional, for finish)
  • Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
  • Steamed broccoli or snap peas
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken by patting it dry and tossing it with a mix of cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until coated.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes and lightly spray the basket with oil.
  3. Air-fry the chicken in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Prepare the orange sauce by simmering orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened. Stir in toasted sesame oil if using.
  6. Once the chicken is crispy, toss it in the sauce and serve over rice with steamed broccoli, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

For a vegan version, replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower. Adjust honey or maple syrup to taste.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.topchoicerecipes.com/crispy-air-fryer-orange-chicken/