One of my favorite weeknight meals to make is Air Fryer Orange Chicken. It’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor—a perfect blend of crispy chicken and a tangy orange sauce that hits all the right notes. The first time I tried this recipe was actually during a casual family gathering a few years ago. My sister and I had just returned from a whirlwind trip to a local Asian market, where we discovered an assortment of frozen meals and sauces we hadn’t seen before. Among them was a frozen orange chicken that immediately piqued our interest.
I remember us standing in my kitchen, debating whether we should attempt to cook something more elaborate or stick to something simple that would allow us more time to enjoy each other’s company. We opted for simplicity, and that decision turned out to be perfect. As the orange chicken crisped up in the air fryer, the smell filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that took me back to the streets of Beijing, where we’d enjoyed a similar dish from a food stall. It was incredible how quickly the air fryer could transform frozen chicken into something crispy and golden, without the need for any additional oil.
That evening, we paired the dish with some steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. But what truly made it memorable was the laughter, conversation, and ease of preparation. Instead of slaving over a complicated dish, we were able to sit down, share stories, and enjoy a delicious meal in a fraction of the time. Since then, this air fryer orange chicken has become a staple in my home—especially on nights when I want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
The recipe is also a lifesaver when unexpected guests drop by. With just a few minutes of prep and cooking, I can have a restaurant-quality meal ready that everyone loves. Plus, it’s versatile—sometimes I throw in some extra veggies or serve it over noodles to switch things up. It’s dishes like these that remind me that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest recipes bring the greatest joy.
Making Air Fryed Orange Chicken
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Ingredients
- 10 ounces frozen orange chicken (approximately 2 cups)
- Sauce from the packaged frozen orange chicken
Directions
- Place the frozen orange chicken pieces in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. There’s no need to spray the pieces with oil.
- Cook the chicken at 400°F for 8 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket or flip the chicken pieces over to ensure even crisping.
- Continue air frying for another 2-4 minutes until the chicken is fully heated and crispy.
- In the meantime, warm the orange sauce either by microwaving it for 1 minute or heating it on the stovetop over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the warmed orange sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy orange chicken!
Storing Suggestion
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness, and warm the sauce on the stovetop or microwave before tossing the chicken again.
Cooking Tips
For a crispier texture, you can spray the chicken with a light coat of oil before air frying. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce before heating it.
Serving Suggestions
This orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. For a fresh contrast, serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad. A light, citrusy drink like lemon iced tea makes a great pairing.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have frozen orange chicken, you can substitute with breaded chicken tenders or nuggets, and use bottled orange sauce or homemade sweet and sour sauce for a similar flavor. Gluten-free alternatives for the sauce are also available if needed.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, serve the orange chicken with a fresh, cold salad of mixed greens and citrus slices. For a winter variation, consider adding a touch of ginger and garlic to the sauce for a warming flavor. You can also add seasonal veggies like snow peas or bell peppers for a heartier meal.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains gluten and soy, which are common allergens in the frozen chicken and sauce. To make this dish gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free breaded chicken and gluten-free orange sauce. Soy-free orange sauces are also available for substitution.
FAQ:
Can I use homemade breaded chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use homemade breaded chicken. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before tossing it in the orange sauce.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Warm the sauce separately and then toss the chicken.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can air fry vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers along with the chicken, or stir-fry them separately to serve on the side.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The standard frozen orange chicken contains gluten, but you can substitute with gluten-free breaded chicken and gluten-free orange sauce to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How long does it take to cook the chicken in the air fryer?
It takes around 12-15 minutes to fully cook the frozen orange chicken in the air fryer, depending on your air fryer’s size and power.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to cook the chicken in batches if it doesn’t all fit in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 10 ounces Frozen Orange Chicken approximately 2 cups
- Sauce from the Packaged Frozen Orange Chicken
Instructions
- Arrange the frozen orange chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. There's no need for oil spray. Keep the sauce aside for now.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes. Shake the basket and flip the chicken pieces, then cook for an additional 2-4 minutes until the chicken is hot and crispy.
- Heat the orange sauce in the microwave for 1 minute or on the stovetop over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Toss the cooked chicken with the warmed sauce and serve.
