Crispy Orange Chicken in Air Fryer

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).

2. 2

   Cut the chicken breast into cubes of about 4 cm (1.5 inches). Place the cubes in a bowl with the first amount of cornstarch and toss well to coat evenly.

3. 3

   Shake off excess starch and place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches at least 74°C (165°F).

4. 4

   Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, red pepper flakes, and orange zest.

5. 5

   Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   In a small bowl, mix the second amount of cornstarch with a little water to form a thin paste, then stir it into the orange sauce.

7. 7

   Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, then remove from heat immediately.

8. 8

   Remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer and toss with the prepared orange sauce.

9. 9

   Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Shopping list

500g (1.1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast, 2 tbsp + 2 tsp cornstarch, 1/2 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1 pinch red pepper flakes, zest of 1 orange, optional green onions and sesame seeds

Recipe story

This recipe draws inspiration from ancient culinary traditions of the East, where oranges, brought along the Silk Road, were considered a royal gift. In princely kitchens of the Middle Ages, poultry glazed with honey and citrus symbolized wealth and refinement. The sweet and sour sauce, a defining element of Chinese cuisine, has been reinterpreted in this modern version adapted for the air fryer.