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Air Fryer Orange Chicken: A Crispy Delight for Your Dinner Table

If you’re craving a crispy, tangy dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, look no further than Air Fryer Orange Chicken. This modern twist on a classic Chinese takeaway favourite allows you to indulge in all the flavours without the excessive oil, making it a healthier option that does not compromise on taste.

The Allure of Air Fryers

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a versatile and efficient way to cook a variety of dishes. They use hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior, mimicking the frying process but with significantly less oil. This not only makes for lighter meals but also simplifies clean-up, as there’s no splattering oil to contend with. The air fryer is perfect for weekday dinners when time is of the essence, yet you still want to serve up something scrumptious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Air Fryer Orange Chicken, you will require the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 100g cornflour (for coating)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• For the Orange Sauce:
  • 160ml orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • Zest of one orange
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or any white vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (to thicken)
  • Optional: Sesame seeds and spring onions for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Dunk the seasoned chicken in the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, transfer the chicken into a bowl of cornflour, tossing until each piece is thoroughly coated. This will give your chicken that delightful, crunchy texture.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (or 390°F). Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap for even cooking. Spray the chicken lightly with cooking oil to encourage crispiness, then cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The chicken should be golden and cooked through when done.

3. Make the Orange Sauce:

While your chicken is cooking, whisk together all the ingredients for the sauce in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it begins to thicken. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch slurry, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes longer.

4. Combine and Serve:

Once the chicken is crispy and cooked, transfer it into a large bowl and pour the orange sauce over it. Toss to coat each piece of chicken evenly. Serve your Air Fryer Orange Chicken immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for a lovely presentation.

Pairing Suggestions

Air Fryer Orange Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, which absorbs the tangy sauce perfectly. For added colour and nutrition, consider serving it alongside seasonal vegetables or a fresh Chinese-style salad.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the comfort of takeout into your home kitchen with a healthy twist. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s not only tasty but also a hit with family and friends. So, dust off that air fryer and bring a bit of zest to your dinner routine. Enjoy your culinary creation!

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