![Air Fryer Orange Chicken](https://leaf.nutrisystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Air-Fryer-Orange-Chicken-pic1.jpg)
We’re about to embark on a recipe that’s going to revolutionize your meals and redefine ‘healthy eating’. Imagine biting into a piece of succulent chicken, bursting with the tangy sweetness of orange and the subtle heat of spices. Get ready for a delicious, guilt-free twist on a favorite take-out classic: Healthy Air Fryer Orange Chicken.
By using an air fryer, we’re cutting back significantly on oil but not on flavor. Our Air Fryer Orange Chicken recipe will give you crispy, golden-brown pieces of chicken coated in a vibrant, zesty orange sauce. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory. With this recipe, you won’t have to choose between your health and your taste buds.
So, put on your apron and get ready to cook up a storm. Your journey towards a healthier lifestyle just got a lot more flavorful. Stay tuned for an unforgettable culinary experience that’s as easy as it is delicious.
How to Make Orange Chicken in the Air Fryer
This scrumptious Air Fryer Orange Chicken recipe serves four individuals, each serving brimming with a modest 210 calories. If you’re following the Nutrisystem program, you can easily incorporate this meal into your plan as two PowerFuels and one Extra.
The primary ingredient is one pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes of about one inch. To prep the chicken, combine it with two tablespoons of cornstarch until every piece is evenly coated. This ensures a crispy exterior when air fried.
The orange sauce packs a flavorful punch. It’s composed of a third of a cup of orange juice, two minced garlic cloves, half a teaspoon of fresh minced ginger (or a quarter teaspoon if using dried ginger), one tablespoon of rice vinegar, three tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce, two tablespoons of honey, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. To thicken the sauce, you’ll also add a slurry with two teaspoons each of cornstarch and water in a small bowl.
To start cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees. Cook the chicken for seven to ten minutes or until fully cooked through. While the chicken is cooking, you can begin preparing the sauce. Combine all sauce ingredients (except for the water and cornstarch) in a saucepan set on medium heat and let it simmer for five minutes.
Add the slurry to the sauce and let it simmer for an additional minute before removing from heat. Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce until well-coated. Finally, garnish your dish with one chopped green onion and a teaspoon of sesame seeds before serving.
What to Serve with Orange Chicken
Pairing your Air Fryer Orange Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new culinary heights. Here are some delightful options to consider:
Steamed Jasmine Rice
This fragrant and slightly sticky rice is an ideal base for your orange chicken, soaking up the tangy sauce and providing a satisfying, starchy complement to the dish.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
A vibrant mix of bell peppers, snow peas, carrots and broccoli stir-fried with a touch of soy sauce adds color, texture and a burst of nutrients. A veggie stir-fry is a great way to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Asian Noodle Salad
Toss together chilled soba noodles, shredded cabbage, carrot, cucumber and a sesame-soy dressing for a refreshing side that contrasts beautifully with the warm, saucy chicken.
Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls
These crispy, stuffed rolls make for an indulgent side dish. Opt for vegetable-filled versions to keep things light.
Wonton Soup
A delicate, soothing broth with dumplings can be a lovely prelude to the main course, adding an element of warmth and comfort to your meal.
Remember, the key to a well-rounded meal is balancing flavors and textures. Therefore, selecting sides that offer contrast to your orange chicken—whether it’s through nutrition, flavor or texture—can make your dining experience even more enjoyable.
*Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 210
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 PowerFuels and 1 Extra
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 Tbsp. cornstarch
- ¹⁄₃ cup orange juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp. fresh minced ginger (or ¼ tsp. dried ginger)
- 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar
- 3 Tbsp. soy sauce, low sodium
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp. cornstarch
- 2 tsp. water
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 tsp. sesame seeds
Directions:
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch. Mix until they are coated.
- Cook chicken for 7-10 minutes, until fully cooked.
- In the meantime, start preparing the sauce. Add orange juice, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey and red pepper flakes to a saucepan set to medium heat.
- Bring sauce to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then add it to the orange sauce and let simmer for an additional minute to thicken. Remove from heat.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce.
- Top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- *Please note that all air fryers cook differently. Before trying any recipe, always refer to the manufacturer safety instructions provided with your specific air fryer.