Air Fryer Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat

Try this Air Fryer Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat recipe for a delicious, crispy chicken coated in a tangy and sweet sauce. Perfect for a homemade takeout-style meal!

Air Fryer Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat is a delicious and healthier take on the beloved restaurant dish. The crispy chicken pieces are coated in a tangy-sweet sauce made from a blend of pineapple, bell peppers, and chili, all perfectly balanced to bring out the bold flavors of the original.

By using the air fryer, you can achieve that crispy texture without deep frying, making this dish a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative. Whether served with rice or veggies, it’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful, homemade version of your favorite takeout meal.

If you love an easy air fryer chicken recipe, check out some of my other recipes, such as Air Fryer Sesame Chicken or even a simple Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad.

Why You Will Love Sweet Fire Chicken -Panda Express Copycat Recipe!

• Crispy and tender chicken – The air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
• Sweet and spicy flavor – The tangy sweetness of the sauce with a hint of heat offers a delicious balance of flavors.
• Quick and easy – This copycat recipe is fast to make, saving you time without compromising on taste.
• Healthier than takeout – By using the air fryer, you get a lighter version of the popular dish without deep-frying.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for meal prep – This recipe stores and reheats well, making it ideal for making ahead and enjoying later.

Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Tender, boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces.
• Olive oil: High-quality, smooth olive oil for cooking.
• Cornstarch: Fine, smooth cornstarch for crispiness.
• All-purpose flour: Versatile flour for battering chicken.
• Egg: Fresh egg for coating and binding.
• Red bell pepper: Sweet, vibrant red bell pepper cubes.
• Orange bell pepper: Fresh, sweet orange bell pepper cubes.
• Onion: Crunchy, mild onion for flavor balance.
• Pineapple: Sweet, juicy pineapple chunks for contrast.
• Garlic: Fresh, aromatic garlic for bold flavor.
• Sweet chili sauce: Tangy, sweet, and spicy chili sauce
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Spicy, zesty red pepper flakes for heat.

How To Make Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken

Step One: Begin by setting up three breading stations: place the flour in one bowl, beat the egg in a second bowl, and add the cornstarch to the third bowl.

Step Two: Coat the chicken with flour, dip it in the egg wash, and then coat it with cornstarch. Place the breaded chicken into the greased air fryer basket.

Step Three: Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray, then air fry at 370°F for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again after flipping.

Step Four: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the peppers, onions, and garlic for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Next, add the sweet chili sauce and red pepper flakes, and sauté until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step Five: Toss the chicken to coat, then add the pineapples and mix everything together well.

Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Recipe Tips

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Double Coat the Chicken: For a crispier texture, coat the chicken twice—once in the flour and then in the egg and cornstarch mixture. This extra layer ensures a crunchy exterior.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, don’t overcrowd the chicken in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple instead of canned. The sweetness of fresh pineapple complements the sauce perfectly.
• Reheat Properly: To keep the chicken crispy, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes, rather than using the microwave.
• Make Ahead: You can bread and air fry the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add the sauce. This saves time on busy nights.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 370°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven for similar results, making sure to keep the chicken crispy.

What To Serve With Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Recipe

Panda Express Sweet Fire Chicken Copycat pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to complement its bold flavors. Serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or fried rice for a classic pairing, or opt for crispy air fryer vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to add some crunch and freshness. For a lighter option, a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the chicken, while dipping sauces like soy sauce or extra sweet chili sauce can add a little extra zing. You can also include some warm, toasted egg rolls or spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.

Copycat Sweet Fire Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but the cooking time may need slight adjustment.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.

Can I skip the breading step? For a lighter option, you can skip the breading, though it may affect the crispiness and texture of the chicken. You could also try using a gluten-free breading for a healthier alternative.

How can I adjust the spice level? To adjust the spice level, you can reduce or eliminate the crushed red pepper flakes, or add more to make it spicier. You can also adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce to balance the sweetness and heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken and toss it in the sauce right before serving to maintain its crispiness.

Can I use a different fruit besides pineapple? Yes, other fruits like mango or peach can be used instead of pineapple for a different flavor profile while still providing that sweet and tangy contrast.

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• air fryer trader joe’s salmon pinwheels

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Equipment Used

• INSTANT VORTEX PRO AIR FRYER OVEN 9 IN 1 WITH ROTISSERIE, 10 QT, EVEN CRISP TECHNOLOGY

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