Easy Orange Chicken recipe You’ll Love

Craving that perfect balance of sweet, tangy orange flavor with crispy chicken but don’t want to order takeout again? You’re in the right place. This easy orange chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that your family will request weekly.

Orange chicken has its roots in American-Chinese cuisine, popularized by fast-casual restaurants like Panda Express in the 1980s. While it’s not a traditional Chinese dish, it was inspired by classic citrus-flavored dishes from the Hunan province. What makes this recipe special is how accessible it is – no specialized ingredients or techniques required, making it easy to love this recipe.

Beyond its mouthwatering flavor, this recipe offers nutritional benefits too. The orange juice and zest provide vitamin C, while the protein-packed chicken keeps you satisfied. By making it at home, you control the ingredients – meaning less sugar, sodium, and preservatives than restaurant versions.

Unlike many home versions that fall short on flavor or texture, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of crispy chicken and sticky-sweet orange chicken sauce that rivals any takeout. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s fast enough for weeknights but impressive enough for company.

Easy Orange Chicken

This easy orange chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple preparation techniques. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a light, crispy batter then tossed in a sweet-tangy orange sauce that perfectly balances citrus brightness with savory depth.

Unlike takeout versions that can be overly sweet and heavy, this homemade recipe creates the perfect sauce consistency that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken. Ready in just 30 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand, this dish transforms ordinary chicken breast into an extraordinary meal the whole family will request again and again.

Ingredients for Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these simple components that transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. The magic of this dish lies in the balance between fresh citrus flavors and savory elements, particularly when paired with orange chicken sauce.

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken thighs or breast meat, diced into bite-sized cubes
• 3 eggs, whisked with a fork, can be used to create a light batter for the skinless chicken if desired.
• ¾ cup cornstarch
• ⅓ cup flour
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Neutral cooking oil for frying (approximately 3-4 cups)

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1¼ cups freshly squeezed orange juice (approximately 4 medium oranges)
• 3 tablespoons orange peel, finely grated
• ⅔ cup brown sugar (or maple syrup as an alternative)
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons tamari or regular soy sauce
• 4 garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, grated
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch blended with 3 tablespoons cold water
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 3 scallions, sliced on diagonal for garnishing, add a fresh touch to the dish when served over rice.
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds for finishing

These carefully selected ingredients work together to create that perfect balance of sweet citrus flavor with just enough savory depth that makes homemade orange chicken truly satisfying.

If you’re looking for an in-depth nutritional analysis of different cooking oils used for frying and their impact on health, check out this resource from the American Heart Association.
Explore health benefits of different oils.

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Creating this vibrant citrus chicken dish at home is an achievable culinary adventure that delivers impressive results without complicated techniques, and you’ll love this recipe.

The beauty of crafting orange chicken in your own kitchen lies in customizing the flavors exactly to your preference while avoiding the preservatives and excess sodium found in takeout versions. The process breaks down into distinct stages that build layers of texture and flavor.

Preparing the Protein:

1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Combine salt and pepper in a small dish, then sprinkle mixture over chicken, ensuring even coverage.
3. Create your coating station with three separate containers: one with beaten eggs, another with your cornstarch-flour mixture.
4. Dunk each chicken chunk first into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Roll coated pieces in the cornstarch blend, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage.
6. Set coated pieces aside on a clean plate, allowing them to rest for 5 minutes.
7. Pour cooking oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed vessel until it reaches about 2 inches depth.
8. Heat oil to 340-360°F (check with thermometer for accuracy) before adding the chicken for optimal frying results.
9. Carefully lower chicken pieces into oil in small batches, maintaining oil temperature for that perfect golden brown finish.
10. Fry until exterior develops a light amber color (approximately 4-5 minutes).
11. Transfer cooked pieces to a wire rack over a baking sheet (not paper towels, which can make them soggy).

Crafting Your Citrus Sauce:

1. Pour orange juice into a cold saucepan, then whisk in zest.
2. Add sweetener of choice, stirring until completely incorporated.
3. Introduce vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic and ginger, letting aromatics bloom.
4. Bring mixture to a gentle bubble over medium flame, stirring occasionally.
5. Mix cornstarch with cold water in a separate cup until completely smooth.
6. While sauce simmers, drizzle in cornstarch mixture while constantly whisking to achieve the perfect thickness for serving over rice.
7. Allow sauce to bubble steadily for 3 minutes as it transforms into a glossy glaze.
8. Reduce heat to lowest setting and incorporate sesame oil with a final whisk.

Final Assembly:

1. Toss fried chicken pieces into sauce using gentle folding motions for even distribution, ensuring to coat the chicken thoroughly.
2. Transfer to serving platter and shower with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
3. Serve immediately while coating is still perfectly crisp with a sticky-sweet exterior.

Serving Suggestions easy orange chicken recipe

The perfect orange chicken deserves complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors while creating a satisfying, balanced meal for any occasion.

Serving your homemade orange chicken the right way can transform an ordinary meal into a truly memorable dining experience. The bright citrus notes pair beautifully with a variety of sides that complete the presentation.

Rice Options:

• Jasmine Rice: with its light floral scent and subtly sticky texture, is ideal for soaking up every bit of the orange sauce.
• Brown Rice: For a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, this healthier alternative still pairs beautifully with the tangy chicken.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up the sauce while adding extra vegetables to your meal.

Vegetable Pairings:

• Steamed Broccoli with orange zest: The crisp-tender florets provide textural contrast and their mild flavor won’t compete with the chicken.
• Stir-Fried Snow Peas: Quick-cooked with a bit of garlic, they add a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances the sweet-tangy sauce perfectly.
• Simple Asian Slaw: Thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed with rice vinegar and a touch of sesame oil.

Complete Your Meal With:

• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy wrappers filled with fresh vegetables make an excellent starter.
• Hot and Sour Soup: The spicy, tangy flavors prepare your palate for the main course.
• Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, it cleanses the palate between bites of the rich orange chicken.

For a truly authentic experience, serve family-style with small bowls for each diner and chopsticks alongside regular cutlery.

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Storage & Reheating

Knowing how to properly save and warm up leftover orange chicken helps maximize your cooking effort, letting you enjoy this delicious meal more than once.

Having a plan for your remaining orange chicken means nothing goes to waste. With the right techniques, you can maintain that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy chicken even when enjoying it a day or two later.

Keeping It Fresh:

• Cool dishes to room temperature within one hour before storing
• Use shallow containers instead of deep ones for quicker cooling
• Keep chicken and sauce in different containers to prevent sogginess
• Consume refrigerated leftovers within 2-3 days for best taste quality
• Place a paper towel under chicken pieces to absorb excess moisture before frying the chicken.

Long-Term Storage:

• Quick-freeze chicken pieces on a metal sheet before transferring to storage bags
• Double-wrap frozen portions to prevent freezer burn
• Store frozen orange chicken for up to 6 weeks
• Label packages with contents and date for easy identification
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator rather than at room temperature

Reviving The Dish:

• Set your conventional oven to 375°F ahead of time to achieve the crispiest texture.
• Place the chicken on a wire rack set atop a baking sheet to promote even air flow during cooking.
• Warm for 7-9 minutes until heated completely through
• Heat sauce separately in a small pot, stirring occasionally
• Combine just before serving to preserve textural contrast

Alternative Warming Methods:

• Toaster ovens work well for small portions (5-7 minutes at 350°F)
• Skillet reheating with a splash of water creates a steam environment
• Air fryers revitalize crispiness in just 2-3 minutes at 360°F, making them perfect for preparing skinless chicken.

Avoid using plastic containers that might leach chemicals when reheating this acidic dish.

Tips & Variations

Customizing this easy orange chicken recipe allows you to adapt it to different dietary needs or simply explore new flavor dimensions while mastering essential techniques.

The beauty of making orange chicken at home lies in your ability to adjust and experiment. These suggestions will help you troubleshoot common issues and inspire creative twists on the classic recipe.

Expert Tips:

• Double-dip chicken pieces in egg then coating for an extra-crispy exterior
• Let coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to help coating adhere better
• Monitor the oil with a thermometer to keep the temperature steady between 350°F and 365°F.
• Cook skinless chicken in smaller batches to prevent temperature drops and oil absorption, ensuring each piece is perfectly crispy.
• Pat chicken completely dry before coating to ensure crispiness
• Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to your sauce if it’s not thickening properly
• If the sauce is overly sweet, add a splash of rice vinegar to even out the flavor.
• Warm serving plates in the oven to keep chicken crispy longer

Creative Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Increase the heat by using twice the amount of red pepper flakes and stirring in a tablespoon of sriracha.
• Honey-Orange: Replace half the sugar with local honey for floral notes
• Orange-Ginger Explosion: Triple the fresh ginger for a warming kick
• Citrus MedleyAdd lemon and lime zest alongside orange for complexity, enhancing the flavor of the orange chicken sauce.
• Baked VersionCoat skinless chicken with a light spray of oil and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, ensuring a deliciously crispy texture.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 380°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking basket halfway through
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute rice flour for all-purpose flour and use tamari instead of soy sauce

Consider preparing extra sauce to keep in the refrigerator for quick flavor boosts to other dishes throughout the week.

Nutritional Information Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Understanding the nutritional value of this easy orange chicken recipe helps you make informed choices about your meal planning. Making this at home gives you more control over the ingredients, unlike takeout versions .

With 1 cup steamed white rice:

Notes:

• Values may vary based on specific ingredients used
• You can cut down on sodium by opting for low-sodium soy sauce.
• Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be substituted for different nutritional profiles
• This homemade version contains approximately 40% less fat and 30% less sodium than typical restaurant versions

For a detailed look into how to interpret nutrition labels and calculate nutrient values, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) offers a great breakdown of serving sizes and daily values.
Learn how to read nutrition facts from the FDA.

FAQs

Conclusion & Call to Action

This easy orange chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors into your kitchen with straightforward preparation techniques anyone can master. By creating this dish at home, you’ll enjoy better flavor control, fresher ingredients, and significant savings compared to regular takeout.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect harmony of crispy chicken pieces and vibrant orange sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes, especially when you make the orange sauce from scratch. This versatile dish works equally well for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

We welcome your cooking experiences with this recipe! Tell us how you customized it, what sides you paired it with, or any time-saving tricks you discovered along the way. Your kitchen adventures inspire our community and help fellow home cooks elevate their culinary skills.

Related Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe, we invite you to explore these complementary recipes:

1. Chicken Wing Brine
2. Easy Buffalo Chicken Wrap Recipe
3. Quick Chicken Breakfast Recipes For A Vibrant Start
4. Delicious Alice Springs Chicken Recipe (Outback Copycat)