Delicious Chicken and Green Onion Stir-Fry (Air Fryer Version)
Introduction:
This chicken and green onion stir-fry is a fast, flavorful, and healthier take on a takeout classic—made entirely in the air fryer. Tender, marinated chicken pieces are cooked to perfection, then tossed with aromatic green onions and a savory-sweet sauce. The air fryer gives the chicken a lightly crisped edge without deep frying or excessive oil, making this a weeknight win!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time (Optional): 20 minutes – 1 hour
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~30–60 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
For the Chicken:
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (helps crisp in air fryer)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon oyster sauce (or hoisin for vegetarian)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
Vegetables:
4–5 stalks green onions (spring onions), sliced into 2-inch pieces
1/2 cup sliced bell pepper or snow peas (optional for color and crunch)
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Let marinate for 20 minutes to 1 hour in the fridge.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Air Fry the Chicken:
Spray or lightly oil the air fryer basket.
Place the marinated chicken in a single layer (you may need to cook in two batches depending on your air fryer size).
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Chicken is done when lightly browned and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
Add Green Onions (Final Toss):
Once chicken is cooked, transfer to a heat-safe mixing bowl.
Toss in the green onion pieces and the prepared sauce.
Return to air fryer basket and cook for 2–3 more minutes at 375°F to heat through and soften the green onions.
Serve:
Plate the stir-fry and sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onion. Serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Tips:
Add extra veggies like red pepper, broccoli, or mushrooms with the green onions if desired.
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; use parchment paper with holes if needed to avoid sticking.