Easy Orange Chicken Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Guide

A black bowl filled with golden-brown chicken bites coated in a glossy glaze, garnished with fresh parsley, surrounded by lemon slices and parsley leaves for a vibrant presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Orange chicken is a classic Asian-inspired dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving takeout but want a healthier homemade version. This recipe is simple to follow and requires common pantry ingredients, making it a go-to option for busy families. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients for Orange Chicken

To make this easy orange chicken recipe, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you prepare:

Main Ingredients

  1. Chicken
    • 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
    • Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too.
  2. Cornstarch
    • ½ cup cornstarch to coat the chicken for a crispy texture.
  3. Eggs
    • 2 large eggs, whisked. This helps the cornstarch stick to the chicken.
  4. Vegetable Oil
    • Enough for frying the chicken pieces. Canola or sunflower oil are great options.
  5. Orange Juice and Zest
    • 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice and 1 tablespoon of orange zest for an intense citrus flavor.
  6. Soy Sauce
    • 3 tablespoons of light soy sauce for a savory depth.
  7. Sugar
    • ¼ cup granulated sugar for a hint of sweetness in the sauce.
  8. Vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for tanginess.
  9. Garlic and Ginger
    • 2 cloves of garlic, minced, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger to enhance the flavor.
  10. Cornstarch Slurry
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to thicken the sauce.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Red Chili Flakes
    Add ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Vegetables
    Include broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to make it a complete meal.
  • Sesame Seeds
    Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds as a garnish for extra crunch.
Freshly prepared chicken cubes surrounded by an assortment of ingredients including orange halves, garlic cloves, soy sauce in a wooden bowl, green onions, crumbled cheese, chili flakes, and powdered seasoning, all arranged on a wooden surface.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Chicken Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower.
  • Soy Sauce Alternatives: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
  • Sweetener: Swap granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.

Preparing the Chicken

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Chicken

The chicken is the foundation of this recipe, and ensuring it is crispy yet tender is key to making the best orange chicken. Follow these steps to prepare the chicken:

1. Cut the Chicken

  • Wash and pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts.
  • Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).
  • Tip: Keep the pieces uniform in size for even cooking.

2. Prepare the Coating Station

Set up a coating station with the following:

  • Bowl 1: 2 whisked eggs.
  • Bowl 2: ½ cup of cornstarch mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.

3. Coat the Chicken

  • Take each piece of chicken, dip it into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Then, dredge it in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
  • Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate, making sure they don’t stick together.

Tip: For extra crispiness, you can repeat the coating process by dipping the chicken back into the egg and cornstarch.

4. Heat the Oil

  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  • You’ll need about 2-3 inches of oil to deep-fry the chicken properly.
  • Tip: The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.

5. Fry the Chicken

  • Carefully add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy.
  • Fry each batch for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

6. Keep the Chicken Warm

  • To keep the chicken crispy while preparing the sauce, place the fried pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Keep them in a 200°F (95°C) oven until you’re ready to combine them with the sauce.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Chicken

  • Use a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature; too hot will burn the coating, while too cool will result in greasy chicken.
  • Avoid over-frying the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry.

Now that the chicken is prepped and ready, it’s time to create the flavorful orange sauce to complete the dish.

Making the Orange Sauce

The orange sauce is the heart of this dish, providing the sweet, tangy, and slightly savory flavor that makes orange chicken irresistible. Here’s how to make the perfect orange sauce:

1. Gather Your Sauce Ingredients

You will need the following:

  • Orange Juice: 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice for vibrant flavor.
  • Orange Zest: 1 tablespoon for an added citrusy punch.
  • Sugar: ¼ cup granulated sugar to balance the tanginess.
  • Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons for umami depth.
  • Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons for acidity.
  • Garlic and Ginger: 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon grated ginger for a warm, aromatic base.
  • Cornstarch Slurry: 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water to thicken the sauce.

Optional Additions:

  • Red Chili Flakes: ½ teaspoon for a hint of heat.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Replace sugar with these for a more natural sweetness.

2. Prepare the Sauce Base

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

3. Mix the Sauce Ingredients

  1. In the same saucepan, add the following:
    • Orange juice
    • Orange zest
    • Soy sauce
    • Rice vinegar
    • Sugar
  2. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Tip: Taste the sauce at this point and adjust the flavors as needed. Add a pinch of salt if it’s too sweet, or a splash of vinegar if it’s too bland.

4. Thicken the Sauce

  1. Once the sauce is simmering, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously.
  2. Allow the sauce to cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon without running off.
  3. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or more orange juice to thin it out.

5. Add Optional Spices or Ingredients

  • For heat, stir in red chili flakes or a small amount of sriracha.
  • For a unique twist, add a teaspoon of sesame oil for nutty undertones.

6. Set the Sauce Aside

Turn off the heat and let the sauce sit for a minute. This will allow the flavors to meld together. It’s now ready to combine with the crispy fried chicken.

Tips for Perfect Orange Sauce

  • Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor; bottled juice often contains additives that can alter the taste.
  • Adjust sweetness and tanginess based on your preference.
  • Keep stirring the sauce to prevent lumps from forming while adding the cornstarch slurry.

Cooking the Orange Chicken

Now that the crispy chicken and flavorful orange sauce are ready, it’s time to combine them into a mouthwatering dish. This step is all about coating the chicken evenly with the rich sauce while preserving its crunch.

1. Reheat the Sauce

  • Place the saucepan with the orange sauce back on medium-low heat.
  • Stir the sauce to ensure it’s warm and smooth before adding the chicken.

2. Add the Fried Chicken

  • Gradually add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce.
  • Toss the chicken gently in the sauce using a spatula or large spoon to coat every piece evenly.

Tip: Work quickly but carefully to ensure the chicken stays crispy.

3. Simmer for Flavor Infusion

  • Allow the coated chicken to simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
  • This step helps the chicken absorb some of the sauce without becoming soggy.

4. Check Consistency

  • Ensure the sauce clings to the chicken and has a glossy finish. If the sauce appears too thick, add a small splash of water or orange juice and stir well.

5. Garnish the Dish

  • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions over the chicken for added flavor and a pop of color.
  • Optional: Add thin slices of orange or orange wedges as a decorative touch.
A skillet filled with golden-brown glazed chicken bites garnished with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Over a Bed of Rice

  • The sweet and savory flavors of orange chicken pair perfectly with steamed white rice or jasmine rice.
  • For an even richer experience, serve it with fried rice.

Pair with Noodles

  • Toss some cooked noodles with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil, and serve them as a side to complement the chicken.

Include Steamed Vegetables

  • Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy add a fresh, crunchy element that balances the dish’s richness.

Tips for Cooking Orange Chicken

  1. Timing Is Key: Add the chicken to the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
  2. Double Batch the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, prepare a slightly larger quantity for drizzling over rice or noodles.
  3. Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili flakes or leaving them out entirely.

Serving Suggestions, FAQs, and Conclusion

Now that your orange chicken is ready, it’s time to plate it beautifully and enjoy! Below are serving ideas, answers to common questions, and final tips to make this dish unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

1. Plating Ideas

  • Over Steamed Rice: Place a generous serving of steamed white or jasmine rice on a plate and top it with the saucy orange chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
  • With Fried Rice: Pair the orange chicken with vegetable fried rice for a hearty, takeout-style meal.
  • Alongside Noodles: Serve with chow mein or lo mein noodles tossed in soy sauce and sesame oil.
  • With Vegetables: Add steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a healthy touch.

2. Family-Style Serving

  • Arrange the orange chicken in a large bowl or serving dish and let everyone serve themselves. Include small bowls of rice and sides for a complete family meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Store the chicken in an airtight container to keep it crispy, and refrigerate the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with the chicken just before eating.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

3. Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use gluten-free cornstarch. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

5. What if I don’t have fresh oranges?

You can use store-bought orange juice, but fresh juice and zest give a brighter, more natural flavor.

6. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Add more red chili flakes, a splash of sriracha, or even diced fresh chili peppers to the sauce for extra heat.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  1. Prep Everything in Advance: Have all ingredients measured and ready to go before starting to cook for a seamless experience.
  2. Keep the Chicken Crispy: Always add the chicken to the sauce at the last moment to preserve its crunch.
  3. Balance Flavors: Taste the sauce while cooking and adjust sweetness, tanginess, or saltiness to your liking.

To keep your chicken tender and moist, follow these tips on how to keep thin chicken breasts from drying out.

If you’re looking for an alternative cooking method, check out this guide on how to cook chicken tender.

Pair your orange chicken with the best sides using ideas from what do you eat chicken sausage with.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Orange Chicken

Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making easy orange chicken at home. With its crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce, this dish is perfect for satisfying takeout cravings without leaving the house. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or with vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. And if you loved this dish, check out more quick and easy recipes at bestquicklyrecipes.com for your next culinary adventure!