Start by cutting 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture to help the cornstarch stick better and ensure crispiness. Season the pieces with 1/2 teaspoon salt and a dash of ground black pepper.
Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over them. Toss well until every piece is lightly but evenly coated to create a crispy coating.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to turn the pieces and achieve a golden, crispy finish.
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a bowl: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste, 2 crushed garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired heat level.
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the hot chicken and toss well to coat every piece. The warmth helps the sauce cling perfectly, resulting in sticky, flavorful bites.
Serve your Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken immediately. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles and a side of crunchy veggies or a simple salad.
