Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
Highlighted under: Global Flavor Recipes
Discover the deliciously crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed, a perfect dish for any occasion.
This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The air fryer ensures that the chicken stays crispy while being coated in a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken without the excess oil
- Deliciously sweet and tangy orange glaze
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 35 minutes
A Healthier Twist on a Classic
Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed is a fantastic alternative to traditional Chinese takeout. By using an air fryer, you achieve that desired crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This not only makes the dish healthier but also saves you time on cleanup. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, creating a delightful crunch while locking in moisture, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
The use of boneless, skinless chicken thighs makes this recipe not only delicious but also affordable. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts, making them perfect for this dish. Plus, they cook quickly, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Pair this with the vibrant orange glaze, and you have a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or craving a weekend treat, Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed fits the bill. Its sweet and tangy flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite. You can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy this delightful dish.
The versatility of this recipe allows you to serve it in various ways. Enjoy it over a bed of fluffy rice, toss it with vegetables, or even use it as a filling for wraps. The orange glaze can be adjusted to your taste, adding more honey for sweetness or extra ginger for a spicier kick. This adaptability makes it a staple in any home cook's repertoire.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
For the Orange Glaze
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed.
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the egg, then coat with the cornstarch mixture.
Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken in the basket in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Make the Orange Glaze
In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken. Stir until smooth.
Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the orange glaze until fully coated. Serve warm with rice or vegetables.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed with steamed jasmine rice for a classic combination. The fluffy rice soaks up the sweet glaze, enhancing each bite. For a healthy twist, consider serving it alongside sautéed broccoli or snap peas. Their crisp texture complements the chicken beautifully, adding a nutritious touch to your meal.
For a more casual dining experience, serve the orange chicken in lettuce wraps. The fresh, crunchy lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, glazed chicken, making for a fun and interactive meal. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for a burst of flavor and color.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use the air fryer again to maintain that crispy texture. Simply preheat the air fryer and warm the chicken for a few minutes until heated through, ensuring it's just as delicious as when it was freshly made.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it should be good for about two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the air fryer or oven, adding a bit of fresh glaze if desired.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize the orange glaze to suit your taste preferences. Add some chili flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist. You can also experiment with different citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, to create unique flavor profiles that keep this dish exciting.
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. These alternatives provide similar flavor profiles without the gluten, making this dish accessible to more dietary preferences. The recipe is as easy to adapt as it is to prepare, allowing you to create a meal that fits your lifestyle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze for an extra kick!
Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
Discover the deliciously crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed, a perfect dish for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Global Flavor Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
For the Orange Glaze
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the egg, then coat with the cornstarch mixture.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken in the basket in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then add the cornstarch mixture to thicken. Stir until smooth.
Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the orange glaze until fully coated. Serve warm with rice or vegetables.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 25g