Crispy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Healthier Takeout Favorite, Easily Made Gluten-Free
Say goodbye to greasy takeout and hello to a healthier, even more delicious alternative: **Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken**. This incredible recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken without excessive oil, paired with a homemade sweet and sour sauce that strikes an exquisite balance of tangy and sweet flavors. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners, offering all the beloved taste of your favorite Chinese-American dish with the convenience and health benefits of air frying. Once cooked, the succulent chicken pieces are generously tossed in our vibrant sauce, ready to be served over your preferred fluffy rice, making for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
This particular sweet and sour chicken recipe has been a long-standing family favorite, originally shared in 2018 and consistently refined to perfection. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes, and it remains a highlight on our curated list of Air Fryer Asian-Inspired Recipes. We’ve meticulously updated it to ensure it’s not only incredibly easy to make but also adaptable to various dietary needs, proving that convenience doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or quality.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
There are countless reasons why this air fryer sweet and sour chicken recipe is destined to become a staple in your home. From its incredible texture to its versatility, here’s what makes it truly special:
- Achieve Crispy Perfection Without the Oil! The air fryer works wonders, circulating hot air to give the chicken a beautifully crisp exterior with only a minimal amount of oil spray. This means you get all the satisfying crunch of deep-fried chicken without the heavy grease, making it a much lighter and healthier option for your family.
- Effortlessly Make it Gluten-Free! Catering to dietary restrictions is simple with this recipe. By simply swapping regular soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like Tamari or coconut aminos, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors without compromising on taste or texture. This makes it an inclusive dish that everyone can enjoy.
- A Guaranteed Kid-Friendly Recipe! The irresistible blend of sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce makes this dish incredibly appealing to children. It’s a fantastic way to introduce them to new flavors while providing a meal that’s both nutritious and fun to eat, often surpassing the quality of store-bought or restaurant versions.
- Utilizes Everyday Pantry Ingredients! You’ll love the convenience of this recipe, as it primarily calls for ingredients you likely already have on hand. This makes it an ideal choice for last-minute meal planning, reducing the need for special grocery trips and simplifying your cooking routine.
The Magic Behind Air Frying Chicken
The air fryer has revolutionized how we prepare crispy foods, and chicken is no exception. Its unique technology allows for rapid circulation of hot air, creating a convection effect that crisps food evenly and efficiently. For sweet and sour chicken, this means the cornstarch-coated chicken cubes develop a golden, crunchy crust that locks in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken on the inside and a delightful crispiness on the outside. This method uses significantly less oil than traditional deep-frying, offering a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite crispy dishes.
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable dish. Our recipe focuses on fresh, accessible items that come together to form a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: We recommend thighs for their rich flavor and tendency to stay moist and tender, even when cooked at high heat in the air fryer. They are less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts, ensuring a more enjoyable texture.
- Cornstarch: This is a crucial ingredient for creating that signature crispy coating on the chicken and for thickening our luscious sweet and sour sauce.
- Olive Oil Cooking Spray: A light mist of oil is all you need to achieve golden-brown, crispy chicken without the excess fat.
- Crushed Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth and pungent flavor that is essential for the sauce.
- Canned Pineapple with Juice: Provides a natural sweetness and tropical tang, which is a cornerstone of classic sweet and sour sauce. The juice also forms part of the liquid base.
- Green Bell Pepper: Contributes a mild, slightly bitter note and a vibrant color, as well as a pleasant crisp-tender texture when cooked in the sauce.
- Sweet Onion: Offers a foundational sweetness and savory depth to the sauce, softening beautifully as it simmers.
- Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce and create the cornstarch slurry.
- Granulated Sugar: Essential for the “sweet” component of the sauce, balancing the tanginess of the vinegar.
- Distilled White Vinegar: This is where the “sour” comes from! It provides the necessary acidity and bright, zesty flavor that defines sweet and sour chicken.
- Gluten-Free or Regular Soy Sauce: Delivers umami and savory notes. Opt for a gluten-free variety like Tamari for a gluten-free meal, or a low-sodium version if preferred.
- Ketchup: Adds a touch of tomatoey sweetness, a hint of umami, and contributes to the sauce’s rich color.
- Extra Cornstarch (for Slurry): Used with water to create a slurry that thickens the sauce to the perfect glossy consistency.
While the star of the show is the chicken, this meal truly shines when served alongside a complementary side. We highly recommend pairing this delicious dish with fluffy white rice, healthier brown rice, or a low-carb cauliflower rice. Garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor, or serve with a side of steamed green beans for added vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
Creating this irresistible dish is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect crispy chicken and a flavorful, balanced sauce every time.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubed chunks. Consistency in size ensures even cooking. Place the chicken cubes in a large bowl and generously toss them with 1/4 cup of cornstarch until each piece is thoroughly coated. This coating is key to achieving that desirable crispiness.
- Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). While it preheats, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Carefully arrange the cornstarch-coated chicken in a single layer in the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. This allows for optimal air circulation and crisping. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Initial Oil Spray: Give the chicken in the basket another light, even coat of olive oil spray. This second spray helps activate the cornstarch and promotes a golden, crispy finish.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken at 390°F (199°C) for 12-15 minutes. During the cooking time, make sure to shake the basket vigorously every 4-5 minutes to ensure even browning and crisping. If the chicken appears dry or floury, apply another light coat of olive oil spray. Continue cooking until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
- Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce: While the chicken is air frying, start on the sauce. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the crushed garlic, canned pineapple chunks (including their juice), diced green bell pepper, diced sweet onion, water, granulated sugar, distilled white vinegar, soy sauce (gluten-free if preferred), and ketchup. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and let it simmer.
- Create the Cornstarch Slurry: Once the green pepper and onion in the sauce have softened slightly (this usually takes about 5-7 minutes of simmering), prepare your thickening agent. In a small separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until a smooth, lump-free slurry forms.
- Thicken the Sauce: Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce in the saucepan. Continue to whisk gently as the sauce cooks on medium heat for another 5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency and achieved a glossy sheen. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Combine and Coat: Once the chicken is fully cooked and crispy, carefully transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly made sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious, tangy glaze.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your homemade Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken hot over your choice of cooked rice. For an extra touch, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. Enjoy!
A full, printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions can be found further below on this page for your convenience.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken in the Air Fryer
Elevate your air fryer sweet and sour chicken with these pro tips, ensuring a mouthwatering meal every time:
- Don’t Skimp on the Oil Spray! This is key to achieving that coveted crispy texture without deep-frying. Ensure you use a good quality olive oil cooking spray or grapeseed oil cooking spray to fully and evenly coat the cornstarch on the chicken. If any spots look powdery or dry after the initial spray, apply a little more. The oil helps the cornstarch crisp up and turn golden brown.
- Amp Up the Heat for a Spicy Kick! If you love a bit of heat, easily transform this dish by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sweet and sour sauce while it simmers. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to reach your desired level of spice.
- Make it a Meal Prep Masterpiece! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can prepare the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the chicken in the air fryer and combine it with the pre-made sauce for a quick and easy dinner.
- Choose Chicken Thighs for Superior Moisture! While chicken breasts can be used, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe. They naturally contain more fat, which keeps them incredibly juicy and flavorful in the air fryer, preventing the dryness that can sometimes occur with leaner chicken breasts.
- Customize Your Soy Sauce! Feel free to experiment with different types of soy sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs. Coconut aminos offer a soy-free, gluten-free alternative with a slightly sweeter profile, while low-sodium soy sauce is great for reducing salt intake. We frequently use Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce for its rich flavor and gluten-free certification.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: For truly crispy chicken, it’s crucial to cook the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively around each piece, ensuring even cooking and maximum crispiness. If necessary, cook in multiple batches.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately at the right temperature, leading to a better, more consistent result.
- Check Internal Temperature for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees food safety and helps prevent overcooking.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing your delicious Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken correctly will help maintain its flavor and texture for days to come. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the air fryer is the best way to restore that satisfying crispiness. Simply heat at 330°F (165°C) for 2-3 minutes. If the chicken appears a bit dry, a quick spritz of olive oil cooking spray before reheating can help re-crisp it beautifully.
To round out your homemade Asian feast, consider pairing this delicious, tangy meal with crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls. The combination makes for an unforgettable dinner that rivals any restaurant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this recipe:
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can. However, chicken breasts are leaner and tend to dry out more easily in the air fryer. If using chicken breast, cut them into slightly larger cubes and monitor them closely to avoid overcooking. The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so always rely on a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C). - How can I make the sauce less sweet or more sour?
To make the sauce less sweet, reduce the amount of granulated sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. To make it more sour, add an additional teaspoon of distilled white vinegar, tasting as you go until you reach your desired tanginess. - Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. Consider adding diced carrots, bell peppers of different colors, snap peas, or broccoli florets to the sauce for added nutrition and color. Add them with the green bell pepper and onion so they have time to soften. - Is it possible to freeze air fryer sweet and sour chicken?
While you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately, the texture of the crispy chicken may become softer upon thawing and reheating. The sauce, however, freezes very well. Store the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop. Cook fresh chicken when ready to serve. - What if my chicken isn’t getting crispy?
Ensure your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded, allowing ample space for air circulation. Also, make sure to adequately coat the chicken with cornstarch and then spray thoroughly with oil before and during cooking. A second light spray of oil after shaking can make a big difference.
It’s time to ditch the take-out menus and embrace the joy of homemade cooking! With this simple yet incredibly flavorful Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, you can effortlessly create a meal that is perfectly crispy, bursting with a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, and significantly healthier than its deep-fried counterparts. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.
Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
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Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 1/4 Cup Cornstarch
- Olive Oil Cooking Spray
Sauce
- 1 Clove Crushed Garlic
- 8 oz Canned Pineapple with Juice
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, Diced
- 1/4 Cup Diced Sweet Onion
- 1 3/4 Cups Water
- 3/4 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Distilled White Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Gluten-Free or Regular Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Ketchup
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch + 2 Tbsp Water
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked Rice
- Green Beans
Instructions
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Cut the chicken into cubed chunks, toss in a large bowl with cornstarch to coat the chicken.
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Spray the basket of the air fryer with olive oil cooking spray and evenly place the chicken in the basket.
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Give the chicken another coat of olive oil spray.
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Cook at 390°F for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Shake the chicken and coat with olive oil spray if needed throughout the cooking time.
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While the chicken is cooking, use a medium-size saucepan and add the garlic, pineapple chunks with juice, green pepper, onion, water, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and ketchup to the saucepan, whisking it well and bringing to a low-boil.
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Once the pepper and onion are soft, in a small bowl combine the 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry.
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Whisk the slurry into the saucepan and whisk the sauce, letting it continue to cook on medium heat for 5 minutes until thickened.
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Carefully add the cooked chicken to a bowl, and coat with the sauce.
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Serve over cooked rice.
Notes
Nutrition
