Description
This Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken is a healthier take on the classic takeout dish, crispy golden chicken pieces tossed in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce. With the air fryer, you get perfectly crispy chicken without the excess oil. The sweet and sour sauce, made with pineapple, vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, adds the perfect balance of flavor. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun family dinner. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Cornstarch
- Egg
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil spray (for air frying)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Pineapple juice
- Rice vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Ketchup
- Brown sugar
- Garlic (minced)
- Ginger (fresh, grated or ground)
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Red bell pepper (optional, diced)
- Pineapple chunks (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, then dip into beaten egg, ensuring it’s coated well.
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Spray the chicken with a light coat of oil.
- Air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce: In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the sauce. Continue to simmer until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Once the chicken is done, toss it in the sweet and sour sauce, making sure each piece is coated.
- Garnish with diced red bell peppers and pineapple chunks if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, though chicken breast is leaner.
- For extra crunch, you can lightly spray the chicken with more oil during the cooking process.
- Feel free to customize the sauce by adding more pineapple or adjusting the sweetness by adding more sugar or ketchup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Air Fryer Recipes
- Method: Air Fried, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese, American