Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1-1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced, about 2 small breasts)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Sides and Optional
- 1 batch coconut rice (or plain rice)
- 1/2 batch Asian cucumber salad (optional, see note 1)
- 1 large lime (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Rice: Prepare the coconut rice or plain rice according to your preferred recipe or package instructions and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breasts lengthwise into thinner pieces. Cut each breast in half then half again to yield about 4 thin pieces per breast. Pat the chicken slices dry with paper towels.
- Season Chicken: In a large bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cornstarch. Add the chicken slices and toss with a spatula until coated evenly. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss again to distribute the oil for even cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Arrange the chicken slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between pieces for proper air circulation. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes—carryover heat will bring it up to a safe 165°F. Then thinly slice the cooked chicken.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, and soy sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Make Salad (Optional): If using, prepare the Asian cucumber salad or an alternative simple cucumber salad as suggested in note 1.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with the thinly sliced chicken and a portion of Asian cucumber salad, if using. Drizzle or brush the prepared sauce over the top. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with lime wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- Note 1: For the Asian cucumber salad, you can use a simple mixture of thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and sesame seeds for a refreshing side.
- Ensure the chicken pieces do not overlap in the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures juicy and tender slices.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, the chicken can also be cooked in a skillet over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Use lime wedges to add a fresh citrus zing by squeezing over the finished bowls before eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion