Orange Chicken

Short Description

Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This homemade version delivers restaurant-quality flavor with fresh ingredients and simple steps, making it a perfect meal for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful – Golden-fried chicken coated in a rich, zesty orange sauce.
• Better Than Takeout – Enjoy fresh, homemade ingredients with no additives.
• Easy to Make – Simple steps for a delicious and satisfying dish.
• Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice, and crispiness to your preference.
• Family-Friendly – A hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

chicken breast or thighs
cornstarch
all-purpose flour
eggs
salt
black pepper
vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
orange zest
soy sauce
rice vinegar
brown sugar
garlic
ginger
red pepper flakes (optional)
cornstarch (for thickening)
water

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken – Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken – In one bowl, mix cornstarch and flour. In another, beat the eggs. Dip chicken pieces in egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
3. Fry Until Crispy – Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Orange Sauce – In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until fragrant.
5. Thicken the Sauce – Mix cornstarch with water, then add to the sauce. Stir until thickened.
6. Coat the Chicken – Toss fried chicken in the orange sauce until fully coated.
7. Serve – Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions and serve with rice or steamed vegetables.

Variations

• Healthier Option – Bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying.
• Extra Spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Honey Orange Chicken – Replace brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
• Vegetarian Version – Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken separately from the sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss with fresh sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Toss the chicken in the sauce right before serving to maintain crispiness.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can omit them for a non-spicy version.

What’s the best side dish for orange chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables complement it well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but store the sauce and chicken separately for the best texture.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well for frying.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs add more flavor and stay juicier.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) for a thicker consistency.

Is orange chicken the same as General Tso’s chicken?

No, General Tso’s chicken has a more savory, slightly spicier sauce, while orange chicken is sweeter and tangier.

Conclusion

Homemade Orange Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make alternative to takeout. With its crispy texture, tangy orange sauce, and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Print