Description
How to make crispy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken with tender chicken, tangy sauce, and fresh veggies that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- Chicken & Coating:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- Vegetables & Fruit:
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- Sweet & Sour Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Seasonings & Finishing:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. In one bowl, whisk the large egg. In another, place the cornstarch. This readies your chicken for a perfectly crispy coating, essential for delicious Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken.
- Make Sauce: Whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This tangy sauce is the heart of your Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken, balancing sweet and sour notes perfectly for an authentic taste.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the whisked egg, then thoroughly coat it in cornstarch, ensuring an even layer. This crucial step guarantees that ultimate crispy texture when air frying. Don’t overcrowd the pieces in the basket!
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange coated chicken in a single layer, air frying for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until golden brown and crispy, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers and drained pineapple chunks, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until they are slightly tender-crisp. This adds fresh texture and vibrant color to your dish.
- Combine Dish: Add the air-fried chicken and the prepared sweet and sour sauce to the skillet with the veggies. Toss gently to coat everything evenly, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. This brings your Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken together beautifully.
- Serve Warm: Garnish the finished Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete, comforting meal. Enjoy your homemade crispy takeout!
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure crispy chicken; cook in batches if necessary.
Store leftover Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts; they often turn out juicier and more flavorful.
Serve warm over steamed rice or lo mein noodles, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
The sweet and sour sauce can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
**Allergy Information:** Eggs, Gluten, Soy, Sesame