Published:
Apr 30th 2023
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Sep 1st 2025
Ditch the deep fryer and get ready to enjoy crispy, flavorful orange chicken made effortlessly in the air fryer! This healthier twist on a takeout favorite delivers all the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors you love—without the excess oil. Juicy chicken breast is lightly coated in cornstarch for a delicate crunch, then tossed in a vibrant, homemade orange sauce infused with fresh citrus zest, garlic, and ginger.
Not only is this dish gluten-free, but it also fits into a low-fat, diabetic-friendly meal plan thanks to its refined sugar-free ingredients. Whether served with brown rice or a side of garlic fried rice, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Plus, if you're looking for more air fryer meal ideas, check out our comprehensive guide to air fryer meal prep.
Pro Tip This recipe offers a delightful balance of crispy texture and vibrant flavors, all while being quick to prepare in under 20 minutes. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights and can easily be made ahead or frozen for later enjoyment. Enjoy it over rice or in wraps for versatile meal options that cater to various dietary needs.
Key nutrients
- Lean protein: from chicken breast — supports muscle maintenance and helps keep you full.
- Vitamin C: from fresh orange juice and zest — may help support immune function and antioxidant activity.
- Gingerol & allicin: from ginger and garlic — add flavor and may offer antioxidant properties.
- Potassium: from orange juice — helps maintain fluid balance and normal muscle function.
Why it matters
- Protein can help with satiety and muscle repair after activity.
- Citrus-derived vitamin C supports iron absorption from plant foods.
- Aromatics like garlic and ginger add flavor without extra salt or fat.
Balance & portion
Aim for a balanced plate (vegetables, protein, smart carbs). Choose portions that fit your needs.
What to watch
- Sodium — soy sauce adds salt; consider low-sodium options if needed.
- Added sweeteners — even sugar-free substitutes and maple syrup can impact blood sugar for some people.
Make it even better
- Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers for fiber, color, and nutrients.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to reduce sodium content.
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber and steady energy.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for healthy fats and crunch.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- HealthLine — Chicken - For general info on lean protein benefits in chicken breast.
- Healthline - Vitamin C - For vitamin C roles.
Best fit
- Gluten Free: Made without wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.
- Low Fat: Air frying and lean chicken breast keep fat content lower.
- Diabetic Friendly: Uses sugar-free sweetener and maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
Use with caution / avoid
- Sodium: Soy sauce adds sodium; limit or use low-sodium soy sauce if needed.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Contains chicken; not suitable for plant-based diets without modification.
Helpful modifications
- Use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium, soy-free option.
- Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian/vegan version.
- Choose brown rice or quinoa as a fiber-rich side for added balance.
- Reduce or omit maple syrup to further lower sugars if desired.
Pair with: Steamed broccoli or mixed stir-fried vegetables and a serving of brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- CDC — Nutrition - For general dietary guidance and sodium recommendations.
- American Diabetes Association — Recipes & Nutrition - For diabetic-friendly recipe considerations.
Contains: soy.
-
Soy
Where it appears: Soy sauce.
Swap: Use coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
References
- FDA — Food Allergies - Used for allergen identification and labeling guidance.
Clean
- Wash hands with soap before and after handling raw chicken.
- Sanitize cutting boards, utensils, and surfaces after contact with raw poultry.
- Rinse fresh produce like oranges before zesting or juicing.
Separate
- Keep raw chicken separate from ready-to-eat foods and produce.
- Use a dedicated cutting board for raw poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
Cook
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Check temperature in the thickest part of the chicken pieces.
Chill
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
- Store cooked orange chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety guidelines and poultry handling tips.
- USDA — Poultry Preparation - Safe minimum internal temperature for chicken.
- Air frying uses hot air circulation to create a crispy texture with less oil than deep-frying.
- Orange zest and juice add natural sweetness and a bright citrus flavor to the sauce.
- Cornstarch creates a light, crunchy coating on chicken without heavy breading.
- This dish balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors for classic takeout appeal at home.
- Maple syrup is often used as a natural sweetener for sauces in healthier recipes.
Name & origins
Orange chicken is inspired by Chinese-American cuisine, known for its sweet and tangy glaze over crispy chicken pieces.
Ingredient spotlight
- Chicken breast: Lean protein that stays juicy when air fried.
- Orange zest & juice: Provide fresh citrus aroma and tangy flavor to the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve a crisp, golden coating on the chicken.
- Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and umami to balance sweetness.
Technique tidbit
Air frying triggers the Maillard reaction, browning the chicken's surface for crispness without deep oil immersion.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and tools for a smooth cooking experience.
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Ensure chicken is thawed and patted dry for better crispiness.
During cooking
- Check for a golden brown color to ensure perfect crispiness.
- Flip the chicken when it’s halfway cooked for even browning.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket to maintain airflow and crispness.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Re-crisp chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes when reheating.
Common mistakes
- Skipping cornstarch → coat chicken well for desired crunch.
- Overcooking sauce → simmer gently to avoid burning and thickening too much.
Serve with
- Brown rice or garlic fried rice for a hearty base.
- Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for added nutrients.
- Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.
Toppings & textures
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for crunch.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Occasions
- This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Substitutions
- If you lack cornstarch, use arrowroot powder for a similar crispy texture.
- For a leaner option, substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless turkey breast.
- Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos to make this recipe soy-free and slightly sweeter.
- Use erythritol or stevia instead of brown sugar substitute for a diabetic-friendly option.
- Swap maple syrup with agave nectar if not strictly avoiding refined sugars.
- Use apple cider vinegar in place of rice wine vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Variations
- For a low-carb version, replace cornstarch with almond flour for a keto-friendly coating.
- Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick in this recipe.
- Incorporate lemon or lime zest along with orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Use firm tofu or cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a vegan option.
Refrigerate
- Allow the chicken to cool before placing it in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for optimal taste and safety.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended; the crispy texture may be lost upon thawing.
Reheat
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
- Warm the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave before combining.
Repurpose ideas
- Add to a fresh salad for a nutritious, protein-rich meal.
- Use as a filling for wraps or lettuce cups with crunchy veggies.
- Chicken Breast: Lean protein that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Cornstarch: Creates a light, crispy coating without deep-frying.
- Fresh Orange Juice & Zest: Provides natural sweetness and a bright citrusy kick.
- Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics that enhance the depth of flavor.
- Soy Sauce & Rice Wine Vinegar: Add umami and acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Maple Syrup & Sugar-Free Sweetener: A natural way to sweeten the sauce while keeping it diabetic-friendly.
How long does it take to cook frozen orange chicken in an air fryer?
It takes about 12 minutes to cook frozen orange chicken in the air fryer.
Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken in the air fryer. Make sure you cook the chicken to a temperature of 165 °F, and the chicken will be perfectly delicious.
Can diabetics eat orange chicken?
Orange chicken contains a lot of sugar which can raise blood sugar. Therefore, diabetics cannot eat orange chicken. However, since this orange chicken is made with sugar-free sweetener and maple syrup, diabetics can eat it.
How many calories are in air fryer fried chicken?
This air fryer orange chicken has 231 calories.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it first to ensure even cooking and crispiness in the air fryer.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are great alternatives for a similar crispy texture.
How to make air fryer Orange Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before coating it in cornstarch. Preheat the air fryer and cook the chicken in batches at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce by combining orange juice, zest, sugar-free sweetener, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a pan. Bring to a simmer, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry. Once the sauce has thickened, toss the cooked chicken in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately with your choice of side.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 lb. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast cut into 2-inch pieces
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
3 tablespoons Cornstarch
Olive oil spray
Zest of 1 Orange
1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
5 tablespoons Brown Sugar Substitute
2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Rice Wine Vinegar
1 tablespoon Grated Garlic
1 teaspoon Grated Ginger
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1 tablespoon Cold Water
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
Instructions
Set the air fryer to 400 °F. Let it run for 5 minutes.
Place the chicken breasts in a bowl, then sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and toss to combine.
Add the cornstarch and toss to coat it in the cornstarch.
Place the chicken breast in the air fryer basket and coat it with olive oil spray. Cook the chicken breast for 3–4 minutes.
Turn the chicken breast over and cook it for 5 minutes until it's golden brown.
Place the orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar substitute, maple syrup, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, and onion powder in a small pot and stir to combine.
Place the orange sauce over medium-high heat and let it come to a boil. Cook the orange sauce for 4–5 minutes, stirring periodically until the sauce reduces.
Whisk the cornstarch and water together until combined. Whisk the cornstarch and water into the orange sauce and cook it for 1 minute until it thickens.
Remove the orange sauce from the heat and place it in a large bowl. Add the chicken breast and toss it to coat it in the orange sauce.
Place the orange chicken onto a serving platter, and serve it with rice.
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Hello. Step one of the sauce…
Hello. Step one of the sauce says maple syrup but I don’t see that in ingredients. How much goes in?
Thank you.