Craving that crispy, tangy orange chicken but want a healthier, quicker option? Look no further! This recipe delivers the vibrant flavors of your favorite takeout, all from the convenience of your air fryer. Get ready to ditch the greasy takeout containers and embrace the deliciousness of homemade Crazy Cuisine Orange Chicken.
What Makes This Orange Chicken Recipe "Crazy"?
The "Crazy" in Crazy Cuisine Orange Chicken isn't about chaotic cooking; it's about the explosion of flavor! We're talking a perfect balance of sweet, sour, savory, and spicy, all achieved with simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow air fryer method. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy cooking times – this recipe is designed for busy weeknights, yet delivers restaurant-quality results.
Ingredients for Crazy Cuisine Air Fryer Orange Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for pre-coating chicken)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Instructions for Air Fryer Orange Chicken:
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss again to ensure the chicken is lightly oiled. This helps with achieving that crispy texture.
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Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
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Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
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Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly. Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily in the air fryer. Reduce the cooking time slightly and keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. Consider marinating the chicken breasts beforehand for added moisture.
How do I make the orange chicken spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce to your desired level of spiciness. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake this orange chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer method delivers a crispier result.
How long can I store leftover orange chicken?
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer.
Can I freeze this orange chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked orange chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
This Crazy Cuisine Orange Chicken recipe is a game-changer. It's quick, easy, healthy-ish, and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy!
