Easy Orange Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orange chicken recipe brings restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients, and you can adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice to suit your taste. The chicken comes out crispy on the outside while staying tender inside, and the sauce is bursting with fresh orange flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving takeout at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Cornstarch

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Salt and pepper

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the orange sauce:

• Fresh orange juice

• Orange zest

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, grated

• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• Cornstarch (to thicken)

• Water

Directions

1. In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Coat with flour and cornstarch mixture. Dip into beaten eggs, then dredge again in the flour mixture.

2. Heat oil in a skillet or deep pan. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. In a saucepan, whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

4. Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir into the sauce until thickened.

5. Toss fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.

6. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired, and serve hot over rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

• Make it spicier with more red pepper flakes or sriracha.

• Use honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness.

• Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition.

• Bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for convenience. For best results, keep the sauce separate from the chicken and combine just before serving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make orange chicken without frying?

Yes, you can bake or air fry the chicken for a lighter option.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, but fresh orange juice and zest give the best flavor.

What cut of chicken works best?

Both chicken breasts and thighs work, though thighs stay juicier.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute cornstarch for flour.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely, if you like extra sauce for rice or noodles, just double the sauce ingredients.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance. Reheat before tossing with chicken.

What side dishes go with orange chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I freeze orange chicken?

Yes, freeze the chicken separately from the sauce for best texture. Reheat in the oven and toss in warmed sauce.

Is orange chicken spicy?

It’s usually mild, but you can add more red pepper flakes or chili paste if you like heat.

Conclusion

Orange chicken is a crispy, saucy, and flavorful dish that brings the taste of takeout straight to your kitchen. With its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Whether served over rice or alongside stir-fried veggies, this dish is simple, satisfying, and always a hit at the dinner table.

---

Print