Air Fryer Manchurian Chicken
Crisp air-fried chicken thighs coated in a glossy garlic, ginger, soy, and chili sauce. This Indo-Chinese-inspired dish delivers bold restaurant-style flavor with less oil.
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl.
- Add the cornstarch, neutral oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Arrange the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between the pieces.
- Air fry for 14–16 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
- Check that the chicken is browned and has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
- Meanwhile, place a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and ginger and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
- Simmer for approximately 2 minutes, stirring regularly, until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to the saucepan.
- Toss until every piece is evenly coated with the Manchurian sauce.
- Finish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken with jasmine rice, fried rice, noodles, steamed broccoli, or stir-fried vegetables. Add sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh chili immediately before serving.Recipe Notes
Cook the chicken in batches when necessary. Overcrowding restricts airflow and prevents the pieces from becoming crisp. Toss the chicken with the sauce only after air frying so its exterior retains more texture.Variations
Increase the chili sauce for more heat or add honey for additional sweetness. Use gluten-free soy sauce when required. Chicken breast can replace the thighs, although it may cook more quickly.Wine Advice
A slightly off-dry Gewürztraminer complements the savory spice. A fruity Pinot Noir provides enough acidity to balance the glossy sauce.Nutrition values
Calories: 430 kcal | Carbohydrates: 14 g | Protein: 38 g | Fat: 24 g | Saturated Fat: 6 g | Sodium: 720 mg | Sugar: 5 g