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Air Fryer Fakeaway Honey Chilli Chicken
- Category: Comfort |
My go-to Chinese order is usually salted chilli chicken, but not going to lie, this honey chilli chicken might be my new favourite.
SERVES
4
CALORIES
553
COOKING TIME
18 mins
DIFFICULTY
simple
Can you make honey chilli chicken in the air fryer?
Yes. Cooking honey chilli chicken in the air fryer is one of the best ways to achieve a crispy texture without deep frying. It uses much less oil, making it a healthier alternative to the traditional takeaway version. Plus, it cooks quickly and evenly.
Is this a healthy fakeaway?
Absolutely. This air fryer honey chilli chicken is a lighter, homemade version of a classic takeaway dish. By using lean chicken breast and minimal oil, you get all the flavour without the excess calories and fat. Perfect if you’re looking for a guilt-free fakeaway night.
What type of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh fillets work best for this recipe. Breast is leaner, while thigh meat stays juicier if you prefer a slightly richer taste.
How do I get the chicken crispy in the air fryer?
To get the perfect crunch, coat your chicken in a light dusting of cornflour before air frying. Make sure the pieces are in a single layer in the basket and not overcrowded, so the hot air can circulate evenly.
What temperature and time should I cook the chicken at?
For most air fryers, 200°C (around 390°F) for 12–14 minutes works well, turning halfway through. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces, so check that the chicken is cooked through and golden.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the honey chilli sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just warm it through and toss it with your freshly cooked chicken.
What can I serve with honey chilli chicken?
This dish is delicious with boiled or fried rice, noodles, or even a fresh crunchy salad for a lighter option. It’s a great centrepiece for a homemade fakeaway night.
Can I make it spicier or milder?
Of course! Adjust the amount of chilli flakes or fresh chilli to suit your heat preference. If you like it hotter, add extra chilli or even a dash of sriracha. For a milder version, reduce the chilli and balance it with a little extra honey.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can cook frozen breaded chicken strips in the air fryer. Works great for this recipe!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness before tossing in the sauce.
Method
Step 1
Place the cornflour on a plate and beat the egg in a bowl. Dip the chicken strips into the egg, then coat them in the cornflour. Transfer the coated chicken to your air fryer basket, spray lightly with low-calorie oil, and cook at 200°C for 17–18 minutes, turning halfway for even crispiness.
Step 2
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by mixing all the listed ingredients in a small bowl. Slice the peppers and onions, then sauté them in a heated pan with a little oil until softened.
Step 3
Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the pan along with the sauce. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the sauce becomes thick, sticky, and coats the chicken well. Serve immediately with fluffy rice – and enjoy!
Ingredients
3-4 chicken breasts, cut into strips
2 eggs, beaten
3 tbsp cornflour
low calorie oil spray
1 onion, cut into chunks
1 red pepper, cut into chunks
2 microwave bags of fried rice
Honey chilli sauce:
5 tbsp orange juice
3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
2 tbsp honey
5 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp chilli flakes
1 tbsp dark soy sauce
4 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tsp rice vinegar
