Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of orange with tender, crispy chicken, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The air fryer brings a crispy texture without the extra oil, making it a healthier option that still satisfies your craving for classic takeout.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed stands out for many reasons. First, it offers a quick and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer reduces the need for copious amounts of oil, allowing you to enjoy your favorite flavors without the guilt. Secondly, the tangy and sweet orange glaze elevates the dish, giving it a vibrant flavor that’s hard to resist. The combination of the crunchy chicken, rich sauce, and fresh ingredients makes for a delightful meal that you can whip up in no time. This recipe is not just about great taste; it’s also about convenience. You can prepare it on a busy weekday or impress guests during a dinner gathering with minimal fuss. With its appealing presentation and mouthwatering aroma, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
- 1 pound of chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 1 tablespoon of orange zest
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Directions
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station using three bowls. Fill the first bowl with flour, the second with beat the eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it in breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is fully covered.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
7.While the chicken cooks, prepare the orange glaze. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5-7 minutes. - Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the orange glaze until evenly coated.
- Return the glazed chicken to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the glaze.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
When it comes to serving your Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed, presentation is key. Start by placing a generous portion of the glazed chicken on a vibrant plate. You can create a beautiful bed of steamed rice or quinoa as a base. The fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa complements the crispy chicken and balances the dish’s flavors. For a fresh touch, consider surrounding the chicken with bright, colorful vegetables. Steamed broccoli, sautéed bell peppers, or snap peas work wonderfully. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for added flavor and shine. You might also include slices of fresh orange or a sprinkle of green onions to enhance the visual appeal. This meal is perfect for casual get-togethers or a cozy family dinner, and with its eye-catching presentation, it’ll impress your guests every time.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed, keep these expert tips in mind. First, ensure that the chicken pieces are uniform in size; this promotes even cooking and that perfect crunch. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the glaze or add a splash of hot sauce during cooking for an extra kick. Use fresh orange juice whenever possible, as it intensifies the flavor over bottled alternatives. Another important tip is not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches if necessary guarantees that each piece receives adequate airflow, resulting in a crispy exterior. If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of orange juice and soy sauce ahead of time to infuse even more flavor. Finally, experiment with different breading options; Panko breadcrumbs can add an extra crunch, while crushed nuts can provide a unique flavor profile.
How to Store Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
To store your leftover Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed, start by allowing it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Ideally, keep it in the refrigerator where it can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag after removing as much air as possible, ensuring it’s well sealed. When stored properly, frozen orange chicken can last up to three months without losing its taste or texture. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness. If you’ve only stored it in the refrigerator, simply microwave it until heated through, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as crispy.
Variations of Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
There are numerous ways to customize your Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed to suit your taste preferences or to experiment with different ingredients. For a healthier approach, you might try using cauliflower or chickpeas instead of chicken. These alternatives absorb the orange glaze well and provide an equally delicious outcome. Additionally, you can make a citrus medley by combining oranges with other fruits like lime or tangerine in the glaze for a unique flavor twist. If you’re seeking to add some greens, consider tossing in some fresh spinach or snap peas right before serving. They will provide a nice splash of color and additional nutrients. Furthermore, you can spice things up by incorporating different spices into the breading, such as paprika or cumin, to create a distinct taste. Lastly, if you’re a fan of different sauces, consider swapping the orange glaze for a sweet-and-sour sauce or a tangy teriyaki sauce to change the flavor profile entirely.
FAQ about Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
You might be wondering how to prepare the perfect Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed. One of the most common questions is about the best type of chicken to use. Chicken tenderloins are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and remain tender. However, boneless thighs also work well, giving you a richer flavor. Another frequently asked question is regarding the glaze’s consistency. If your glaze becomes too thick while cooking, you can always add a splash of orange juice to achieve your desired texture. Many also wonder about making the dish in advance. You can prepare the chicken and glaze separately and combine them just before serving for maximum freshness. If you have leftovers, you can reheat them and still enjoy the same great taste. Lastly, feel free to get creative with your sides! Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed pairs beautifully with various side dishes, including rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound pound of chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken thighs Tenderloins or thighs can be used for best flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large large eggs Beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs can add extra crunch.
- Cooking spray or oil Cooking spray or oil for frying For greasing the air fryer basket.
For the Orange Glaze
- 1 cup orange juice Fresh orange juice is recommended.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup sugar Adjust to taste.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- Salt and pepper Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it in breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully covered.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
Cooking
- Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the orange glaze by combining the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let thicken for 5-7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the orange glaze until evenly coated.
- Return the glazed chicken to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the glaze.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.
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