Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken with ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix well to ensure all chicken pieces are coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for best flavor.
Prepare the Coating & Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and cornstarch. In another shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg.
- Dip each marinated chicken piece first into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess coating.
- Lightly spray the bottom of your air fryer basket with neutral oil. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. You will likely need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken pieces with oil.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, then flip the chicken pieces, spray again lightly with oil, and continue to air fry for another 7-9 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Repeat with remaining chicken. Set aside the crispy chicken.
Make the Chili Sauce
- While the chicken is air frying, prepare the chili sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tbsp soy sauce, vinegar, sweet chili sauce (if using), ketchup, sugar, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chilies. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain some crunch.
- Pour in the prepared chili sauce mixture and stir well. Add 1/2 cup water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water). Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more water or broth.
Combine and Serve
- Add the air-fried crispy chicken to the wok with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped spring onion whites and greens, fresh cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve immediately with steamed white rice, noodles, or fried rice.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a saucier chili chicken, increase the amount of water/broth and cornstarch slurry slightly. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the chicken can lose its crispness over time.
