Crispy & Easy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken: Your Ultimate Homemade Takeout Guide

Craving the vibrant flavors of sweet and sour chicken without the deep-fried guilt or the hefty takeout price? Look no further! This incredible air fryer sweet and sour chicken recipe is a complete game-changer, bringing your favorite Chinese restaurant dish right into your kitchen with minimal fuss. Prepare for perfectly juicy and tender chicken pieces, boasting a delightful crisp exterior, all generously coated in a quick-to-make, deliciously tangy, and perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce. It’s a healthier, more convenient, and utterly delicious alternative that your entire family will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Beyond its incredible taste, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, making it a far more economical and often healthier choice than ordering takeout. The chicken, infused with that classic tangy and sweet flavor, is a guaranteed hit, even with the pickiest eaters in your family. Short on time? We’ve got you covered! While making the homemade sauce is easy, you can also opt for a high-quality store-bought sweet and sour sauce to speed things up even further.

If you’re eager to explore more delightful Chinese takeout alternatives you can make in your air fryer, be sure to try our incredibly easy recipe for Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken. Or, if you’re simply in search of fresh dinner ideas, delve into our comprehensive guide featuring our top 50 favorite air fryer chicken recipes for endless culinary inspiration.

Essential Ingredients for Your Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crafting the perfect sweet and sour chicken starts with a selection of fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• Chicken: The star of our dish! You can use chicken strips, chicken wings, or boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces. For white meat, chicken breast provides a lean option, while chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and often remain more tender. Ensure pieces are roughly uniform for even cooking.
• Cornstarch (for chicken coating): This is the secret to achieving that perfectly crispy, golden-brown crust on your air-fried chicken. It creates a light, crunchy barrier that locks in moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out.
• Sugar: A crucial component for the “sweet” in sweet and sour. Granulated sugar works perfectly, but brown sugar can also be used to add a subtle caramel note and a deeper flavor profile to your sauce.
• White Wine Vinegar or Rice Vinegar: Provides the essential “sour” element and bright tanginess to the sauce. It also helps tenderize the chicken subtly, ensuring every bite is juicy. Rice vinegar offers a milder, slightly sweeter acidity, while white wine vinegar is a bit sharper.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth and a touch of saltiness that balances the sweetness and tartness. For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option) are excellent choices.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers an aromatic punch, enhancing the overall flavor of the sauce. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute.
• Pineapple Juice: Such as Dole Pineapple Juice. This ingredient is key for the natural sweetness and fruity tang in the sauce, complementing the vinegar beautifully. It adds a tropical depth that is characteristic of classic sweet and sour.
• Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce, ensuring it’s neither too thick nor too watery, allowing it to coat the chicken perfectly.
• Cornstarch (for sauce thickening): Similar to its role with the chicken, cornstarch here acts as a thickening agent for the sauce. When mixed with water to form a slurry and then heated, it transforms the thin liquid into a glossy, clingy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully without making it soggy.
• Optional: Bell Peppers & Onion: For an authentic takeout experience and added nutrition, consider adding cubed bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) and chopped onion. These can be air-fried lightly or stir-fried and added to the sauce with the chicken.
• Garnishes: Freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds add a pop of color, fresh flavor, and an inviting finish to the dish.

How to Make Perfect Sweet and Sour Chicken in Your Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making this delicious sweet and sour chicken in your air fryer is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken for Crisping

Begin by cutting your chosen chicken (breast or thigh) into uniform, bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces roughly 1-inch in size to ensure even cooking. Place these chicken cubes in a large bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss vigorously until every piece is thoroughly and evenly coated. This coating is crucial for developing that desirable crispy exterior in the air fryer. Shake off any excess cornstarch before proceeding.

Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer and Arrange Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 380º Fahrenheit (195º Celsius). While it’s preheating, lightly brush or spray the bottom of your air fryer basket with olive oil or another cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps ensure crispiness. Carefully arrange the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces in a single layer within the basket. It’s vital not to stack the chicken or overcrowd the basket, as this will steam the chicken instead of crisping it. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Air fry the chicken at 380 degrees F (195 degrees C) for approximately 14-18 minutes. For optimal crispiness and even cooking, make sure to turn the chicken pieces over halfway through the cooking time. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; white meat chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and dark meat 175 degrees F (79 degrees C). The chicken should be golden and crispy on the outside. If you are using a store-bought sauce, you can skip ahead to the last step after the chicken is cooked.

Step 4: Craft the Delicious Sweet and Sour Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, prepare the homemade sweet and sour sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, white wine vinegar (or rice vinegar), soy sauce, minced garlic, and pineapple juice. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly over medium heat. Continue to whisk gently as the sauce comes to a small boil, ensuring the sugar completely dissolves into the liquid. The aroma will already start to be irresistible!

Step 5: Thicken and Perfect the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining cornstarch with the water to create a smooth slurry. Once the sugar in your saucepan has fully dissolved, gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue stirring constantly for about 10-15 seconds until the sauce begins to visibly thicken. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to rest for approximately 5 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools, achieving that perfect glossy, spoonable consistency.

Step 6: Combine, Garnish, and Serve!

Once the chicken is fully cooked and golden, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly made (or store-bought) sweet and sour sauce over the crispy chicken pieces. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is beautifully coated. Serve immediately over your choice of rice or noodles. For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade takeout feast!

Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken

Achieve consistently delicious results with these expert tips:

• Monitor Your Air Fryer: Air fryers can vary significantly in cooking power and efficiency. I personally use a Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer for this recipe. Depending on your specific air fryer’s brand, model, size, and wattage, you may need to adjust the cooking time by 1-2 minutes, either more or less. Keep an eye on the chicken, especially towards the end of the cooking cycle.
• Ensure Proper Doneness: When cooking any meat, safety and taste are paramount. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked through. For white meat (chicken breast), the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). For dark meat (chicken thigh), aim for 175 degrees F (79 degrees C) for optimal tenderness and flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is arguably the most important rule for crispy air-fried chicken. Cook in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each piece for air to circulate freely. If your air fryer is small, cook in multiple batches. Overcrowding leads to steamed, not crispy, chicken.
• Preheat for Best Results: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures a consistent cooking temperature from the moment the food enters, leading to more even cooking and better crispiness.
• Oil Spray for Extra Crisp: A light spray of olive oil or other cooking oil on the chicken *after* coating with cornstarch can enhance crispiness and help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
• Serve with a Classic Base: This sweet and sour chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Make your entire meal in the air fryer by topping cauliflower rice or a delicious air fryer fried rice with these crispy chicken bites for a complete and satisfying meal! Steamed white rice or brown rice are also excellent, simple choices.

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken Variations & Customizations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to get creative:

• Boost the Sweetness and Texture with Pineapple: For a quick and easy source of pineapple juice, simply drain the juice from a can of pineapple chunks. Then, for an extra burst of flavor, delightful texture, and added sweetness, toss in a handful of those drained pineapple chunks directly into your sweet and sour sauce during the last few minutes of simmering, or add them to the cooked chicken before tossing with sauce.
• Incorporate Fresh Stir-Fry Veggies: Elevate your meal by adding colorful and crunchy vegetables. Quickly stir-fry your favorite veggies like bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced onions, broccoli florets, snap peas, or carrots in a separate pan until they are tender-crisp. Then, toss them with the cooked chicken and sweet and sour sauce for a more wholesome and vibrant dish. This is an excellent way to effortlessly add more nutrients to your meal!
• Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, easily transform this dish into a sweet, sour, and spicy delight. Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a tiny bit of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture while it’s simmering. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, simply ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce (such as tamari) and confirm your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
• Different Vinegars: While white wine vinegar or rice vinegar are standard, you can experiment with other types. Apple cider vinegar can offer a slightly fruitier, more robust tang.
• Sesame Oil for Aroma: A tiny drizzle of sesame oil, added to the sauce just before serving, can impart a wonderfully nutty and aromatic finish, typical of many Asian dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What can I serve with this dish?

This air fryer sweet and sour chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a traditional Asian-inspired meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Other excellent options include perfectly cooked chow mein or lo mein noodles. For a lighter, healthier approach, consider steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad. The rich flavor of the warm, crispy chicken coated in sauce is exceptionally tasty and satisfying no matter your choice!

How do I store leftover sweet and sour chicken?

To keep your leftovers fresh and delicious, allow the sweet and sour chicken to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe storage bag. When refrigerated, the chicken will stay fresh for 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through.

What other dishes can be made with sweet and sour sauce?

Sweet and sour sauce is a fantastic, versatile condiment that complements a wide array of meats and even vegetarian options. It’s not just for chicken! For instance, it’s a perfect dipping sauce for crispy egg rolls or spring rolls. You can also use it to enhance air-fried or pan-seared chicken breast, pour it over succulent meatballs for a quick appetizer or meal, or even glaze pork chops or tofu for a flavorful twist. Its balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it a go-to for many quick and easy snacks or main courses anytime.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture and coating adhesion, you can use frozen chicken. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before cutting and coating with cornstarch. If you attempt to cook frozen chicken pieces, the cooking time in the air fryer will need to be significantly increased, and the crispiness might be compromised due to excess moisture.

Why isn’t my chicken crispy?

There are a few common reasons why your air fryer chicken might not be crispy. The most frequent culprit is overcrowding the air fryer basket. For truly crispy chicken, it’s essential to cook in a single layer with space between pieces so that hot air can circulate effectively. Also, ensure your chicken is patted very dry before coating with cornstarch, and don’t skip the cornstarch step! A light spray of oil can also help. Lastly, ensure your air fryer is fully preheated.

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More Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Recipes to Try

4.50 from 4 votes

Servings: 4

Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

By Becky

This air fryer sweet and sour chicken is an irresistible dish that delivers a perfectly juicy and tender interior with a satisfyingly crispy exterior, all coated in a vibrant, homemade sweet and sour sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 18 minutes mins

Sauce Prep: 10 minutes mins

Total Time: 38 minutes mins

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Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer (or large non-stick pan for stir-frying)
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Small Saucepan
• Whisk

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
• ▢ 1/4 cup cornstarch, for coating chicken
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray, for air fryer basket

Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce Ingredients

• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 1/4 cup white wine vinegar, or rice vinegar
• ▢ 1 tablespoon soy sauce, low-sodium recommended
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic , minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
• ▢ 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• ▢ 1/4 cup water
• ▢ 2 tablespoon cornstarch, for thickening sauce (mixed with 2 tbsp cold water to form a slurry)

Optional Garnishes

• ▢ 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
• ▢ 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

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Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubed chunks. Place the chicken in a large bowl, add the 1/4 cup cornstarch, and toss vigorously until each piece of chicken is thoroughly and evenly coated. Ensure there’s no dry cornstarch visible.
• Preheat Air Fryer & Arrange: Preheat your Air Fryer to 380º Fahrenheit (195ºC). While preheating, lightly brush or spray olive oil (or your preferred cooking spray) onto the bottom of the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Carefully place the cornstarch-coated chicken in the basket in a single layer, ensuring pieces do not overlap or overcrowd. Work in batches if necessary to maintain proper air circulation for crispiness.
• Air Fry the Chicken: Air fry the chicken at 380 degrees F for 14-18 minutes. For even cooking and maximum crispiness, make sure to turn or shake the chicken pieces over halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through. Confirm doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for white meat or 175 degrees F (79 degrees C) for dark meat using a meat thermometer. If using pre-made sauce, skip to the last step.
• Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, combine the granulated sugar, white wine vinegar (or rice vinegar), soy sauce, minced garlic, and pineapple juice in a small saucepan. Whisk all ingredients thoroughly over medium heat until the sauce reaches a gentle boil and the sugar has completely dissolved.
• Thicken the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually pour this cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce in the saucepan, whisking continuously for about 10-15 seconds until the sauce thickens to a desired consistency. Remove from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes; the sauce will thicken further as it cools.
• Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is done cooking, transfer the crispy pieces into a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

If you find yourself without baking powder to help with crispiness, don’t worry! To ensure maximum crispiness, thoroughly coat chicken with cornstarch, all-purpose flour, rice flour, or potato starch. These alternatives will still help create a delicious, crispy exterior.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, or if friends and family prefer spicy food, easily add a kick to your sauce. Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a tiny amount of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture while it simmers. Adjust to your desired spice level.

If you are monitoring your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce or reduced-sodium tamari are excellent and highly recommended choices for the sweet and sour sauce, ensuring great flavor without excessive salt.

Advance Preparation: The sweet and sour sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick, before tossing with freshly air-fried chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 274kcal, Carbohydrates: 39g, Protein: 11g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 41mg, Sodium: 300mg, Potassium: 179mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 28g, Vitamin A: 77IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 33mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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