Air fryer orange chicken is a simple 30 minute dinner that tastes just like takeout, but made with simple and healthier ingredients.

air fryer orange chicken in a black bowl with rice next to an orange

Easy weeknight dinners are a staple in our house, and the ingredients need to be simple too. This sticky orange chicken recipe is better than takeout and goes great with fresh vegetables.

Asian inspired recipes are one of my favorites because they are saucy and have so much flavor. We love making a big batch of Asian meatballs and meal prep rice for the week. I also have a great pork marinade that is perfect when you want a quick and easy meal, but aren’t in the mood for chicken again.

sticking a fork into a piece of air fried orange chicken

Ingredients Needed

For the chicken:

boneless, skinless chicken breast – can also use chicken tenderloins if needed.
large egg
cornstarch or potato starch

Orange Sauce:

Minced garlic – I used fresh cloves, but you can also use store bought to save time.
Orange juice – any brand will work.
Honey – maple syrup can be swapped if needed.
Soy sauce – I recommend low-sodium because it tastes the exact same, but less salt.
Rice wine vinegar
Cornstarch – helps to thicken the sauce.
Ground ginger – can adjust the amount if needed. Ginger can be strong, so don’t overdo it.
Crushed red pepper flakes – add more if you like your meals spicy.

top view of air fryer orange chicken over a bed or rice.

How to Make Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees.

Dice the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes on a cutting board. In a large bowl, whisk the egg, then add the chicken to the bowl so it’s fully covered.

Add the cornstarch to a gallon plastic bag. Use tongs to transfer the chicken pieces to the cornstarch.

Seal the bag and shake so all of the chicken is coated.

Place the coated chicken on the cutting board and spray it generously with cooking spray.

Add the chicken, sprayed side down, to the air fryer basket. Now spray the tops with cooking spray.

Air fry to 10-15 minutes at 375 degrees or until it’s golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

While the chicken cooks, combine all of the sauce ingredients to a medium saucepan. Over medium heat, stir constantly for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Remove the chicken from the basket and toss in the sauce. Serve immediately.

holding a piece of orange chicken with chopsticks

Tips for Making

Pat the chicken dry before breading. This removes most of the moisture so it will be more crispy.
If you know you want to keep leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately in the fridge. When ready, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer. Heat the sauce back on the stove or in the microwave, then toss to coat.
Dice the chicken into similar sizes so they cook more evenly.
If needed, use a little water to thin the sauce if you find it’s too thick.

a black bowl of orange chicken and white rice next to fresh oranges

Variations

For more orange flavor and without using extra liquid, add a bit of orange zest to the sauce.

Use the orange sauce with other cuts of chicken. You will need to increase the cooking time for full cuts like chicken thighs.

close up of air fryer orange chicken garnished with red pepper flakes

How to Store

Keep orange chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350 degrees.

What to Serve With

Air fried orange chicken is delicious with white or brown rice and fresh veggies. For a lower carb option, use cauliflower rice instead.

More Easy and Healthy Air Fryer Recipes: