Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Chicken (Paleo & Whole30)

5 from 5 votes

Forget takeout and enjoy this delicious sesame chicken at home with all the healthy ingredients. You can make it on the stovetop or the air fryer!

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Chinese

Keyword: air fryer sesame chicken

Servings: servings

Combine all ingredients for the sauce in a blender, and let it sit while you cook the chicken so the dates can soften.
1/4 cup coconut aminos, 2 tbsp water, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp fish sauce, 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, 2 pitted medjool dates, 2 garlic cloves, 1/2 inch fresh ginger
Toss chicken with with sea salt and tapioca starch until evenly coated.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1 tbsp tapioca starch
STOVE TOP METHOD: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 6-7 minutes while turning every few minutes, until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
1/4 cup avocado oil
AIR FRYER METHOD: Preheat air fryer to 390 degrees F. Add the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through. Set aside.
Blend the soaked sauce ingredients until smooth.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the sauce. Once the sauce starts bubbling, start stirring while simmering for about 2-3 minutes until reduced and thickened.
Add the chicken to the sauce and stir to coat.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seed and chopped green onions. Serve with rice or cauliflower rice.
Toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions