If you’re craving a healthier version of your favorite Chinese takeaway, this crispy chilli beef air fryer recipe is about to become your go-to dish. It’s crunchy, spicy, packed with flavor, and much lighter than deep-fried alternatives — perfect for Slimming World followers and fans of Pinch of Nom recipes.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Let’s dive into how to make the best air fryer crispy chilli beef at home using simple ingredients, bold flavors, and guilt-free cooking.
Why Choose Crispy Chilli Beef in the Air Fryer?
The air fryer transforms thin strips of beef into crispy bites without deep-frying in oil. Traditional crispy chilli beef recipes are usually fried in high-fat oil, but with the air fryer, you get that same crunch using little to no oil.
Whether you follow Slimming World crispy chilli beef meal plans or just want a clean version of a takeout favorite, this airfryer crispy chilli beef delivers big flavor without the calories.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 400g lean beef strips (sirloin, rump, or flank)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (or Slimming World-friendly alternative)
- 1 egg white
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (low-calorie)
For the Sauce:
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small red chilli (chopped)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tbsp honey or sweetener (Pinch of Nom friendly)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg white with salt and pepper. Add beef strips and coat evenly.
- Sprinkle cornstarch and mix until each piece is lightly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 minutes.
- Spray the basket with cooking oil.
- Lay beef strips in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway until the beef is golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a non-stick pan, sauté garlic and chilli for 1 minute.
- Add soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and sesame oil. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Toss the crispy beef into the sauce and coat well.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions and sesame seeds.
Slimming World Crispy Chilli Beef Version
This recipe is easily adapted for Slimming World chilli crispy beef fans:
- Use lean beef (5% fat or less).
- Replace honey with a calorie-free sweetener.
- Use spray oil to minimize syns.
- Avoid sesame oil or use sparingly.
By following these tweaks, your Slimming World crispy chilli beef fits perfectly within your daily plan — no guilt, just flavor.
Pinch of Nom Inspired Crispy Chilli Beef
If you love Pinch of Nom crispy chilli beef style cooking, you’ll love this air-fried version. Inspired by their balance of flavor and diet-friendly swaps, this recipe keeps things bold and satisfying while staying light.
Using soy sauce, garlic, chilli, and honey gives you that classic sweet and spicy kick — all without the heavy calories of takeout.
Add a Twist: Crispy Chilli Beef Mince & Noodles
Want to switch things up?
- Use crispy chilli beef mince for a quicker version. Brown lean beef mince in a pan, then toss with the same sauce and air fry for 5–6 minutes for texture.
- Pair your crispy beef with noodles tossed in soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for a complete Chinese-style bowl. This crispy chilli beef noodles combo is perfect for dinner or meal prep.
These variations add flexibility and variety to your weekly meal rotation.
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftover crispy chilli beef air fryer in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop it back in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 180°C to regain its crispiness.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked beef strips before saucing. Just thaw and toss with fresh sauce when needed.
Final Tips for the Best Crispy Chilli Beef in Air Fryer
- Slice the beef thin for faster crisping.
- Always preheat your air fryer.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; work in batches.
- Add sauce after air frying to keep the beef crunchy.
- Try different variations: crispy chilli beef mince, Slimming World version, or Pinch of Nom-style.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a lighter, healthier take on this classic dish, crispy chilli beef air fryer style is the answer. From slimming world chilli crispy beef to crispy chilli beef noodles, this recipe gives you options to fit your taste and lifestyle.
FAQs
What is crispy chilli beef?
Crispy chilli beef is a popular Chinese-inspired dish made with thin slices of beef that are coated in cornstarch, fried or air-fried until crispy, and then tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with garlic, chilli, soy sauce, and vinegar.
What is the best crispy chilli beef recipe?
The best crispy chilli beef recipe includes thin beef strips coated in cornstarch, cooked until golden and crispy (preferably in the air fryer), and tossed in a sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, chilli, honey, and vinegar. For a healthier version, try the crispy chilli beef air fryer method.
What is crispy shredded chilli beef?
Crispy shredded chilli beef refers to finely sliced or shredded beef that’s deep-fried or air-fried until very crisp, then coated in a sticky sweet-and-spicy sauce. It’s a restaurant-style Chinese takeaway favorite known for its crunch and flavor.
Is crispy chilli beef Chinese?
Yes, crispy chilli beef Chinese style is a dish commonly found in Western-Chinese takeaways. While not traditionally Chinese, it’s inspired by Chinese flavors and techniques, featuring soy, garlic, and sweet chilli-style sauces.
How to make crispy chilli beef?
To make crispy chilli beef, slice beef thinly, coat it with cornstarch and seasonings, and cook until crispy — either deep-fried or in an air fryer. Then prepare a sauce using garlic, chilli, soy sauce, and honey, and toss the beef in it right before serving.
How to cook crispy chilli beef?
You can cook crispy chilli beef by pan-frying, deep-frying, or using an air fryer. The air fryer method is a healthier option that still delivers a crunchy texture. After crisping the beef, mix it with a hot, sweet, and tangy sauce.
How do you make crispy chilli beef at home?
To make crispy chilli beef at home, you’ll need lean beef, cornstarch, egg white, and basic Asian sauces like soy and vinegar. Coat and cook the beef until crisp, then stir-fry it quickly in your homemade chilli sauce. It’s quick, delicious, and easy in the air fryer.
