🍗 Air Fryer Firecracker Chicken
🔥 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
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1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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1/2 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot for GF)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Oil spray (avocado or olive oil spray)
Firecracker Sauce:
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1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or sriracha for spicier kick)
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1/2 cup brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for GF)
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1 tsp minced garlic
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep Chicken:
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Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
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In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Toss chicken pieces in the mixture to coat evenly.
2. Air Fry:
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Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
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Place chicken in the basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
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Lightly spray with oil.
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Cook 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce:
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While chicken cooks, add all sauce ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat.
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Bring to a simmer and cook 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Remove from heat.
4. Toss & Serve:
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When chicken is done, toss it in the sauce or drizzle sauce over.
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Optionally return to the air fryer for 2 minutes to caramelize the glaze slightly.
🌿 Garnish & Serve With:
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Sliced green onions
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Toasted sesame seeds
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Steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried veggies
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Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
🔁 Variations:
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Sweeter: Use more brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey.
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Spicier: Add more hot sauce or a dash of cayenne.
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Gluten-free: Use tamari and arrowroot powder.
Would you like a version that’s kid-friendly (less spicy) or meal-prep friendly?