Introduction

Orange chicken is a beloved dish, and making it at home is easier than you think with this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe. Combining crispy chicken bites with a tangy, sweet orange sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Follow this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

For this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe, you’ll need a mix of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. This ensures the perfect balance of flavors in your orange chicken. The list includes chicken, soy sauce, fresh oranges, and cornstarch, all of which are essential for any Easy Orange Chicken Recipe.

For the Chicken:

Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless) – 1.5 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too.
Cornstarch – 1/2 cup, for coating the chicken to achieve that signature crispy texture.
Eggs – 2 large, whisked to help the cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
Salt and pepper – To season the chicken pieces before frying.
Oil for frying – Neutral oils like vegetable or canola are ideal.

For the Orange Sauce:

Fresh orange juice – 1/2 cup, for a naturally sweet and citrusy flavor.
Orange zest – 1 tablespoon, for an extra boost of orange fragrance.
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup, to balance the sweetness with umami.
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons, for a touch of acidity.
Sugar (granulated or brown) – 1/4 cup, to sweeten the sauce.
Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves, to add depth of flavor.
Ginger (grated) – 1 teaspoon, for warmth and spice.
Cornstarch slurry – 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, to thicken the sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (optional), for a slight kick of heat.

Optional Garnishes:

Green onions – Thinly sliced for freshness.
Sesame seeds – For a nutty crunch.
Orange slices – For an attractive presentation.

Preparation Steps

Preparation is key to making this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe. From cutting the chicken to organizing the sauce ingredients, every step is essential for success. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Easy Orange Chicken Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

1. Preparing the Chicken

Seasoned chicken pieces on a cutting board with egg and cornstarch bowls

Cut the chicken: Take the chicken breasts or thighs and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the meat even before it’s coated or cooked.
Set up the dredging station: Prepare two shallow bowls—one with whisked eggs and another with cornstarch. This two-step coating process helps create a light, crispy crust.

2. Organizing Your Sauce Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have the orange sauce components ready:

Juice the oranges: Squeeze fresh oranges to get 1/2 cup of juice. Strain it if necessary to remove any pulp or seeds.
Zest the orange: Using a microplane or fine grater, zest one orange to gather 1 tablespoon of zest. This adds an extra layer of citrus aroma.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
Prepare the aromatics: Mince the garlic and grate the ginger for the sauce. These ingredients are sautéed briefly to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
Make the cornstarch slurry: Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. This slurry thickens the sauce, giving it that glossy, restaurant-style finish.

3. Preparing the Frying Station

Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or wok, pour enough vegetable or canola oil to cover the chicken pieces halfway. Heat it to about 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Use a thermometer if you have one to maintain consistent heat.
Line a plate with paper towels: This helps absorb excess oil from the fried chicken, keeping it crispy.

Tips Before Cooking:

Marinate briefly if desired: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce for 15 minutes before dredging. This adds additional depth to the flavor.
Test the oil temperature: Drop a small piece of chicken or a pinch of cornstarch into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure it crisps up evenly.

With everything prepped, you’re now ready to move on to the cooking stage, where the magic happens.

Cooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken for this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is straightforward. Whether you prefer frying or baking, achieving the signature crispiness is simple. A crucial step in this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is properly coating the chicken to lock in flavor and texture.

1. Coating the Chicken

Step 1: Dip in egg: Take a piece of seasoned chicken and dip it into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 2: Coat with cornstarch: Roll the egg-covered chicken piece in the cornstarch until completely covered. Shake off any excess. Repeat with the remaining pieces.
Pro Tip: Coat the chicken just before frying. If left to sit for too long, the coating may become soggy.

2. Frying the Chicken

Heat the oil: Ensure the oil in your skillet or wok is at the correct temperature (around 350°F/175°C). If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken cooks through.
Fry in batches: Carefully place a few chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and prevents the chicken from crisping.
Cook until golden brown: Fry each batch for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked inside (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Drain the chicken: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. This step keeps the chicken crispy by removing excess oil.

3. Alternative: Baking the Chicken

For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying:

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare a baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking oil.
Arrange the chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Bake: Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and crispy.

4. Optional Step: Double Frying

For an extra-crispy texture, you can double fry the chicken:

Once all the chicken pieces are fried and drained, increase the oil temperature slightly (375°F/190°C).
Fry the chicken a second time for 1-2 minutes until it becomes ultra-crispy.

With the chicken now cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on making the orange sauce. The sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it right ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Making the Orange Sauce

The orange sauce is the highlight of this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe. Using fresh orange juice and zest, this step ensures the bold flavors that make this dish special. The sauce in this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is tangy, sweet, and incredibly satisfying.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a skillet or saucepan: Use medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable or sesame oil works well) to the pan.
Add the garlic and ginger: Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.

2. Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Add the wet mixture: Pour the prepared mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar into the pan with the aromatics. Stir well to combine.
Incorporate the orange zest: Add the tablespoon of orange zest for an extra citrusy punch.
Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This allows the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly, intensifying the taste.

3. Thicken the Sauce

Prepare the cornstarch slurry: Stir the mixture of 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
Add the slurry to the sauce: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Let it thicken: Continue to simmer and stir for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. The sauce should be glossy and cling to a spoon.

4. Adjust the Flavor

Taste the sauce and make adjustments as needed:

Too tangy? Add a little more sugar.
Too sweet? Add a splash of rice vinegar or soy sauce.
Want more heat? Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste for extra spice.

5. Keep the Sauce Warm

Once the sauce is thickened and seasoned to your liking, lower the heat to keep it warm while you prepare to combine it with the chicken.

Key Tips for the Perfect Sauce:

Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest deliver the best flavor. Avoid bottled orange juice if possible.
Consistency matters: Don’t over-thicken the sauce; it should coat the chicken evenly without being gloopy.
Balance is key: The sauce should have a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Adjust as necessary.

With your sauce complete, it’s time to move on to the exciting part—bringing everything together. The next step is to combine the crispy chicken with the luscious orange sauce to create the perfect dish.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Chicken being tossed in a wok with orange sauce.

Bringing everything together is the most exciting part of this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe. Toss the crispy chicken in the rich orange sauce to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. This step is what elevates the Easy Orange Chicken Recipe to perfection.

1. Tossing the Chicken in the Sauce

Heat the sauce: If the sauce has cooled slightly, warm it up over low heat in the pan. Stir occasionally to maintain its smooth texture.
Add the chicken: Gently place the fried (or baked) chicken pieces into the pan with the sauce.
Toss to coat: Use a spatula or tongs to toss the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the glossy orange sauce.

2. Achieving Perfect Coating

Work in batches if needed: If your pan is small, coat the chicken in smaller batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure an even distribution of the sauce.
Let it simmer briefly: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes. This helps the sauce cling to the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

3. Adding Finishing Touches

Garnish generously: Sprinkle the coated chicken with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or both. These garnishes add freshness and a subtle nutty flavor.
Optional citrus burst: Place a few thin orange slices on top for a vibrant presentation and extra citrusy aroma.

4. Serving the Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is best enjoyed immediately while the chicken is still crispy, and the sauce is warm. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

With steamed rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the sauce.
With noodles: Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a hearty, restaurant-style meal.
With vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas for a balanced plate.

Pro Tips for Combining Chicken and Sauce

Don’t overcook in the sauce: Toss the chicken just until coated. Prolonged cooking can make the coating soggy.
Keep extra sauce on the side: If you prefer your orange chicken extra saucy, double the sauce recipe and serve the extra on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Serve immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the dish as soon as the chicken is coated with the sauce.

With the chicken and sauce perfectly combined, you’ve now created a stunning homemade version of orange chicken. The dish is packed with bold flavors, a crispy texture, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.

Serving Suggestions, Tips, Variations, and Storage Instructions

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is best served immediately for maximum crispiness. Whether you pair it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, the versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser. Explore variations on this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe by adding spicy chili or using tofu for a vegetarian option.

1. Serving Suggestions

Orange chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Classic Pairings

Steamed Rice: A timeless choice that balances the richness of the sauce. Use white, jasmine, or brown rice.
Fried Rice: For an indulgent option, serve orange chicken with egg fried rice or vegetable fried rice.
Noodles: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables or plain lo mein noodles complement the sweet and tangy flavors.

Vegetable Sides

Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds freshness and nutrition.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots sautéed with garlic and soy sauce pair perfectly.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds texture and balance.

Plating Tips

Family-Style: Serve the orange chicken on a large platter garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
Individual Bowls: Layer rice, vegetables, and chicken in individual bowls for a casual, customizable serving style.

2. Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

Achieving the best results every time involves attention to detail and a few tricks:

Double-Coating for Extra Crispiness: After the first fry, lightly dredge the chicken in cornstarch again and fry a second time for a crunchier texture.
Balancing the Sauce: Adjust sweetness, tanginess, and spice according to your preference by tweaking sugar, vinegar, or chili flakes.
Avoid Soggy Chicken: Only toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to preserve the crispy coating.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh orange juice and zest provide a brighter, more authentic flavor than bottled alternatives.

3. Variations on Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is highly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on dietary preferences or creative ideas.

Healthier Options

Baked Orange Chicken: Skip the frying and bake the chicken for a lighter version without compromising flavor.
Air-Fried Chicken: Use an air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil.
Low-Sugar Sauce: Replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, agave, or a sugar substitute.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Orange Tofu: Replace chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes, and pan-fry until golden before tossing in the sauce.
Orange Cauliflower: Bread and bake or fry cauliflower florets for a plant-based twist on the classic dish.

Creative Twists

Spicy Orange Chicken: Add extra chili paste or Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add chunks of pineapple to the sauce for a tropical flair.
Glazed Wings: Use the orange sauce as a glaze for chicken wings or drumsticks.

4. Storing and Reheating

Orange chicken stores well, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. This prevents the chicken from losing its crispiness.

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-12 minutes to retain crispiness.
Stovetop: Warm the sauce in a pan and toss the chicken in just before serving.
Microwave: Use for quick reheating but note that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness.

5. FAQs About Orange Chicken

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

A: Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. Look for 100% juice without added sugar.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

A: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce while simmering.

Can I prepare the chicken and sauce in advance?

A: Yes! You can fry the chicken and make the sauce separately ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them just before serving.

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Conclusion

With this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe, you can enjoy a homemade version of a takeout classic. The crispy chicken, tangy orange sauce, and fresh garnishes make it an irresistible dish. Try this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe today and discover how simple and rewarding it is to make at home.

So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Bon appétit! 🍊🐓