The orange chicken recipe is a popular dish known for its crispy, fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This recipe combines the crunch of lightly battered chicken with the fresh taste of orange zest, creating a balance of flavors that is both savory and slightly sweet. It is a favorite in American-Chinese cuisine, often served with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete a meal.
The orange chicken recipe is simple and utilizes common ingredients such as orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar or honey. These flavors blend to create a rich, sticky glaze that clings to the crispy chicken. Perfect for family dinners or quick, takeout-style meals at home, this dish has become a go-to comfort food for many due to its unique flavor and satisfying crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe
- Perfect Balance: This orange chicken recipe offers the ideal mix of sweet and tangy flavors. The fresh orange zest and juice give it a bright, citrusy kick. Every bite is coated with a rich glaze that is both comforting and refreshing. It’s a family favorite.
- Crispy and Juicy: The chicken is crispy on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside. Light breading locks in the natural flavors, making it taste better than takeout. This perfect texture makes the recipe a go-to for quick meals. It’s always satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This orange chicken recipe is simple and beginner-friendly. With just a few steps, you can make a restaurant-style dish at home. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights. Less time in the kitchen means more time to enjoy.
- Healthier Homemade: Making orange chicken at home means complete control over ingredients. You can use fresh chicken, reduce the oil, and opt for natural sweeteners. It’s more nutritious than deep-fried versions from takeout. This makes it guilt-free and wholesome for everyone.
Ingredient Notes for an Orange Chicken Recipe
- Chicken breast or thighs: Use bite-sized pieces of chicken breast for a leaner option or thighs for a juicier texture.
- Cornstarch: Helps create a crispy coating when frying the chicken.
- Eggs: Beat the eggs and dip the chicken pieces in them before coating them with cornstarch for a crunchy crust.
- Salt and black pepper: Season the chicken for balanced flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Use for frying; it has a high smoke point and a neutral taste.
- Orange juice: Fresh juice adds bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce.
- Orange zest: Enhances the natural aroma and taste of oranges.
- Soy sauce: Brings a savory umami flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a mild tang and depth to the sauce.
- Sugar: Sweetens the sauce, creating the signature sweet and tangy glaze.
Pre-preparation of Orange Chicken Recipe
Before you turn on the stove, have all the ingredients chopped, measured, and ready. Dice the chicken into bite-sized chunks, prepare the egg batter for coating, and zest and juice the oranges. This “mise en place” approach saves time and avoids mid-cooking panic. Trust me, when oil is hot, you don’t want to be scrambling for soy sauce.
How to Make Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for this mouthwatering orange chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Extra orange zest
Directions
Follow these simple steps for the perfect crispy, tangy orange chicken:
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken cubes in salt and pepper. Dip each piece in beaten egg, then dredge in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a wok or deep pan, heat vegetable oil (around 350°F). Test with a small drop of batter—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken in small batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken It: Add the cornstarch slurry, whisk, and let it bubble for 1–2 minutes, or until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Toss Together: Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and extra zest.
Orange Chicken Recipe Variation
You can try a few variations of this orange chicken recipe:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add red chili flakes or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Air Fryer Version: Use an air fryer to make the chicken crispy without the need for deep-frying.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower for a lighter dish.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Add honey to the sauce instead of brown sugar for a richer, sweeter flavor.
How to Serve Orange Chicken Recipe
Orange chicken pairs well with steamed white rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles. For a healthier meal, serve it with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy. It can also serve as a tasty filling for lettuce wraps or be served on top of quinoa.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to keep it crispy.
- Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Prepare the sauce fresh when reheating.
- Meal Prep: Keep sauce and chicken separate if planning to store for later. This will keep the chicken from becoming soggy.
FAQs About Orange Chicken Recipe
Can I make orange chicken without frying?
Yes, you can bake or air-fry the chicken pieces for a lighter version of the orange chicken recipe.
What is the main flavor in the sauce?
The sauce combines fresh orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar for a balanced sweet and sour taste.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicier, making them perfect for an orange chicken recipe.
Is orange chicken spicy?
Traditionally, it’s not very spicy, but you can add red chili flakes or sriracha to the orange chicken sauce for heat.
