Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed

Name: Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening); 1 tbsp sesame oil

Highlighted under: Rapid Cooking Recipes

Enjoy a healthier twist on a classic favorite with this Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed recipe. Perfectly crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange glaze will leave you craving more!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:26:28.937Z

This Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of air-fried chicken with the vibrant flavor of orange. It's a family favorite that doesn't compromise on taste or health!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken with a sweet and tangy orange glaze
Healthier than traditional fried chicken
Quick and easy to prepare in the air fryer
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions

      

The Benefits of Air Frying

Air frying is a revolutionary cooking method that allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly less oil. By using hot air circulation, air fryers cook food evenly while creating a crispy exterior. This means you can indulge in dishes like orange chicken without the guilt associated with traditional frying methods. Plus, air frying retains more nutrients, making your meals healthier overall.

Another advantage of air frying is the convenience it offers. With an air fryer, you can prepare dishes quickly and efficiently, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Preheating usually takes just a few minutes, and cooking times are often shorter than conventional ovens. This means you can have your favorite meals ready in a fraction of the time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying them with family and friends.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this Air Fryer Orange Chicken recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor. Thighs have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which helps keep the meat juicy while cooking. This makes them an excellent choice for air frying, as the hot air cooks the meat evenly without drying it out.

If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can also be used, but be sure to monitor the cooking time closely. Marinating or brining the chicken beforehand can enhance the flavor and moisture, regardless of the cut you choose. This extra step will ensure your orange chicken is not only crispy but also packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Air Fryer Orange Chicken, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up the delicious orange glaze, making each bite more satisfying. For added nutrition, you can also include a side of steamed or sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This not only enhances the meal’s color but also boosts its nutritional value.

If you're looking to elevate your presentation, garnish your dish with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. These toppings not only add a pop of color but also provide a delightful crunch and additional flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy glaze. Your guests will be impressed by both the taste and the appearance of this delectable dish!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten

For the Orange Glaze

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
1 tbsp sesame oil

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before cooking to ensure even coating.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat with the cornstarch mixture.

Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Orange Glaze

In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.

Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange glaze over the chicken and toss to coat. Serve hot with steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy Air Fryer Orange Chicken Glazed!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers after your meal, storing them properly is essential for maintaining their taste and texture. Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will prevent condensation from forming, which can lead to sogginess. Stored correctly, the dish can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating them in the air fryer is the best option. Set the air fryer to a lower temperature, around 350°F (175°C), and heat the chicken for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of the crispiness and ensure the chicken is heated through without becoming dry.

Customizing Your Glaze

While the orange glaze in this recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, you can add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the honey to enhance the sweetness without overpowering the citrus flavor.

Additionally, experimenting with different citrus fruits can create unique variations of the glaze. Substitute some of the orange juice with lemon or lime juice for a refreshing twist. You can also add minced garlic or chopped green onions to the glaze for extra depth of flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy than thighs.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the orange glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables are great sides that complement the orange chicken.