Description
This Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken is a healthier, easier version of your favorite takeout. Juicy chicken thighs are air-fried to perfection and coated in a glossy, sweet, and tangy sauce loaded with vibrant vegetables. Enjoy all the flavor without the excess oil!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken (Marinating & Cooking):
-
1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces
-
1 tbsp vegetable oil
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/3 cup cornstarch
For the Sauce:
-
2 tbsp ketchup
-
2 tbsp rice vinegar
-
2 tbsp light soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
-
3 tbsp brown sugar
-
2 tbsp water
-
2 tsp cornstarch
For Cooking:
-
1 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tsp ginger, minced
-
1/2 small white onion, chopped
-
1 bell pepper, chopped (mixed colors preferred)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Mix chicken pieces with vegetable oil and salt. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Coat Chicken: Add cornstarch to chicken and stir until coated.
- Air Fry Chicken: Preheat air fryer to 450°F (230°C). Spread chicken pieces in a single layer, spray with oil, and cook for 8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Prepare Sauce: Mix ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch.
- Cook Vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet. Add garlic and ginger, cook until fragrant. Add onions and bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sauce: Pour sauce into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Notes
- Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Chinese-American