Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe

The Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe offers a healthier, homemade version of the popular restaurant dish with crispy, almond-coated chicken pieces. It’s a quick and easy recipe that uses the air fryer to create a golden, crunchy texture without the need for deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers all the flavor in just 20 minutes!

Craving Panda Express’ Almond Chicken but want to make it at home? This Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe is the perfect solution!

With tender chicken coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a delicious almond sauce, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in no time—all while keeping it healthier with the air fryer! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

✔️ Crispy & Delicious – The air fryer gives the chicken a crispy, golden texture without the need for deep frying.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ Healthier Option – Enjoy your favorite restaurant dish with less oil and fewer calories.
✔️ Savory Almond Sauce – The rich and flavorful almond sauce takes this dish to the next level.
✔️ Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Fresh chicken breasts, cut into small, even bite-sized pieces.
• Almond flour: Almond flour for a gluten-free, crispy coating.
• Breadcrumbs (optional): Optional breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch.
• Garlic powder: Garlic powder for a savory, aromatic flavor boost.
• Onion powder: Onion powder adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
• Paprika: Paprika for a mild, smoky flavor and color.
• Salt: Salt to enhance all the dish’s natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Black pepper for a subtle kick of spice.
• Eggs, beaten: Beaten eggs to bind the coating to the chicken.
• Sliced almonds: Sliced almonds for a crunchy, nutty topping.
• Cooking spray: Light cooking spray to ensure crispy, non-stick cooking.

How To Make Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe

Step 1: In a bowl, combine almond flour, breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the coating mixture.

Step 2: Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat it with the almond flour mixture. Gently press to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 3: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F (175°C).

Step 4: Sprinkle sliced almonds over the coated chicken pieces for added crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray and set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 6: Remove the almond chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot.

Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use Skinless, Boneless Chicken – For the best texture, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They cook evenly and stay tender inside while getting crispy on the outside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – For a perfectly crispy coating, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if needed, leaving enough space for air circulation.
• Coat Chicken Well – After dipping the chicken in the egg wash, make sure it’s well-coated with the almond flour and breadcrumbs mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
• Add Extra Almonds – For a crunchier finish, sprinkle extra sliced almonds on the chicken pieces halfway through cooking, or even after they’re done, for an extra almond crunch.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness – If your chicken pieces are thicker than average, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for proper doneness.
• Use a Light Spray of Cooking Oil – Lightly spraying the chicken with cooking oil or cooking spray before air frying helps achieve a crisp, golden coating without excess grease.

Storing, Freezing and Reheating

• Storing: Allow the almond chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help preserve its flavor and texture until you’re ready to enjoy it again.
• Freezing: Once the chicken has cooled, place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can freeze it for 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture when reheated.
• Reheating: For a crispy finish, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave it for a quick 1-2 minutes, though it may lose some crispiness.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe

When serving your Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken, consider pairing it with steamed rice to soak up the savory sauce, or add some stir-fried vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers for a healthy, colorful touch.

For a more filling meal, serve it alongside chow mein noodles or crispy egg rolls. An Asian slaw with a tangy sesame dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, crunchy chicken, rounding out the meal with vibrant flavors.

Air Fryer Panda Express Almond Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will add extra moisture and flavor, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for the best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for the coating. Just be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? Absolutely! You can coat the chicken pieces ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before cooking. This makes for an even quicker meal when you’re ready to cook.

How can I get the chicken extra crispy? For extra crispiness, spray a light coat of cooking spray on the chicken before air frying. Also, make sure the chicken is in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even crisping.

Can I cook a larger batch of chicken? Yes, you can cook a larger batch, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches to ensure the chicken crisps up evenly.

Can I use a different nut instead of almonds? While almonds are traditional for this recipe, you can use other nuts, like cashews or pecans, for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly.

More Copycat Panda Express Recipes

• Air Fryer Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat
• Panda Express Fried Rice Recipe
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• Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Chicken Egg Rolls
• Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Fried Dumplings
• Panda Express Chili Crisp Shrimp Recipe
• Air Fryer Panda Express Black Pepper Beef
• Panda Express Beef and Broccoli
• Panda Express Cream Cheese Rangoon
• Reheating Panda Express Leftovers In Air Fryer (Helpful Tips)
• Panda Express Green Bean Chicken Recipe

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