We have all been there. It is 6:00 PM on a Tuesday your energy is zapped and the temptation to pull up a delivery app is almost overwhelming. However, before you spend $40 on greasy, soggy orange chicken, I have a game-changer for you. My Air Fryer Firecracker Chicken is not only faster than the delivery driver, but it is also significantly crispier, healthier and made entirely from scratch.
My goal at Krivia Recipes is simple : to show you that “easy” doesn’t have to mean “processed.” By using an air fryer and a few pantry staples, we achieve that signature deep-fried crunch and a gourmet sauce without the mystery ingredients found in bottled versions.
Looking for more 20-minute wonders? If you loved the speed of this recipe, you have to try my Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe From Scratch in 20 Minutes, which is another perfect solution for those extra busy weeknights!
Why the From Scratch Method Wins
Most people reach for a bottle of sweet chili sauce. On the contrary, making your own firecracker sauce at home allows you to control the sugar and the heat. Furthermore, the secret to that restaurant-quality crunch lies in using cornstarch on the chicken rather than a heavy flour batter. When cornstarch meets high-velocity air, it creates a thin, glass like crust that stays crunchy even after being tossed in your homemade sauce.
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| The Protein | Chicken Breast or Thighs | 500g |
| The Crunch | Cornstarch | 1/2 Cup |
| The Sauce | High-Quality Mayonnaise | 1/2 Cup |
| The Sauce | Raw Honey | 3 tbsp |
| The Heat | Sriracha | 1–2 tbsp |
Instructions : Air fryer, firecracker chicken
- Prep the Chicken: Cut your chicken into 1-inch uniform cubes. Crucially, pat them dry with a paper towel. Toss the cubes in a bowl with cornstarch and a pinch of salt until every piece is fully white and coated.
- Air Fryer Secret: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd , if the pieces touch they will steam rather than crisp. Spritz lightly with avocado oil.
- Cook Time: Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook for 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- From-Scratch Sauce: While the chicken is air frying, whisk together the mayo, honey, rice vinegar and Sriracha in a large mixing bowl. Consequently, your sauce will be ready the moment the chicken is done.
- Final Toss: Once the chicken is golden and clinks against the basket, toss it directly into your sauce bowl. Serve immediately over hot jasmine rice.
My Feedback & Kitchen Notes
The first time I made this, I skipped the rice vinegar in the sauce. The result? It was too heavy and sweet. The Lesson: Don’t skip the acid! That tiny bit of vinegar cuts through the creaminess of the mayo and makes the “Firecracker” flavour explode.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely. Use extra-firm tofu (pressed dry) and a vegan-friendly mayo. The air fryer instructions remain the exact same!
Two reasons: either the chicken was too wet when you applied the cornstarch, or you overcrowded the basket. Air needs to circulate around
It has a kick! However, because you are making the sauce from scratch, you can start with 1 teaspoon of Sriracha and add more until it reaches your preferred heat level.
Krivia REcipes
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