Orange Chicken

If you're bored of the same old chicken recipes, you are going to love this one. Full of fresh citrus flavor and light, crispy chicken morsels, this is the best orange chicken recipe you'll ever try.

And the fact that it can be ready in 25 minutes doesn't hurt either 🙂

So, if you are tired of the same old chicken recipes, step up the flavor with this quick orange chicken recipe. It's easy to prepare, uses fresh ingredients, and is ready in under an hour. What's not to love?

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This orange chicken recipe works brilliantly because it's quick and easy to make. It's perfect for busy weeknights or a casual meal. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish in no time.

Another key strength of this recipe is its versatility. Orange chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from steamed rice to noodles and stir-fried vegetables.

Additionally, the combination of fresh orange juice, garlic, and ginger creates a vibrant and flavorful orange chicken sauce. The chicken is coated in a crispy, light batter, which remains crunchy even after being tossed in the tangy and sweet orange sauce. 

Its ease of preparation, versatility in serving options, and delicious flavor, make this easy orange chicken the perfect dish any night of the week

Ingredients

Orange Juice:

It's important to select a high-quality orange juice to make the best orange chicken. Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal as it offers a natural sweetness and bright flavor that store-bought options often lack.

To prepare fresh orange juice, select 3-4 medium-sized, ripe, juicy oranges, such as Valencia or Navel. Cut them in half and use a juicer or a reamer to extract the juice. If fresh is not an option, choose a store-bought juice that is 100% pure, without added sugars or artificial flavors. This ensures the sauce remains balanced and not overly sweet.

Sugar:

When it comes to adding sugar to your orange chicken sauce, taste it and adjust the sweetness as you go. Add more or less sugar depending on your personal taste preferences.

Rice Vinegar:

Made from fermented rice, rice vinegar has a mild acidity compared to others, which helps balance the sweetness of the orange juice without overpowering the dish. If you don't have rice vinegar on hand, you can use apple cider, white wine, champagne, or white vinegars. 

Soy Sauce:

While soy sauce is traditionally used to bring umami flavors to the sauce, tamari, fish sauce, coconut aminos, Worcestershire sauce, miso paste, or hoisin sauce can also be used.

Ginger and Garlic:

These two aromatics are staple ingredients in most Asian dishes. Ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor, while garlic contributes a robust, umami-rich flavor. Fresh, minced garlic and ginger will give you the freshest and most vibrant flavors. You can create an equally flavorful dish by using any form of garlic and ginger you have—fresh, frozen, powdered, or paste.

Red Chili Flakes and Chili Garlic Sauce:

Crushed red chili flakes and the chili garlic sauce are the perfect ingredients to help you add a bit of heat to your orange chicken sauce without overpowering the dish. You can add as much or as little as you like! You can also use sriracha sauce, hot sauce, or fresh diced peppers to create some more heat in your dish.

Orange Zest:

The orange zest is the outermost layer of the orange peel, containing the fruit's essential oils. It's what gives your orange chicken its signature orange flavor. If you plan on using fresh orange juice to make this orange chicken recipe, then you will have oranges to zest. Simply, hold the orange in one hand and the zester, microplane, fine grater, vegetable peeler, or paring knife in the other. Work gently to only remove the colorful outer layer, avoiding the white pith, which is bitter. Chop any large strips or chunks into finer pieces. You want to avoid taking a bite of zest.

Flour and Cornstarch:

Flour and cornstarch are used to create the golden brown crust on the chicken pieces. Flour provides a thicker coating that helps create a substantial crust and healing to bind the cornstarch to the chicken. The cornstarch counterbalances the thickness of the flour, by encouraging a light and crispy texture and a delicate crust.

Green Onions and Cilantro:

Green onions and cilantro are added to this Chinese orange chicken at the very end. Each herb adds a fresh flavor, crisp texture, and a pop of color to the dish. You can really use any herbs you enjoy here. Chives, shallots, basil, lemongrass, and sage can all be excellent additions. 

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step One: 

Add orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red chili flakes to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step Two: 

Stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the desired thickness is reached.

Step Three: 

Remove from heat and mix in the chili garlic sauce and the zest of one orange. Set aside.

Step Four:

Combine flour, ⅓ cup of cornstarch, and salt in one bowl and beat your eggs in another.

Step Five: 

Dredge the chicken cubes in the egg to coat, then in the flour. Repeat with all the chicken before proceeding to the next step.

Step Six: 

Heat the oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat until boiling. You will want enough oil to fully submerge the chicken when you deep fry it.

Step Seven: 

Deep fry the chicken in small batches for 4-5 minutes until the pieces are crispy and golden brown. Place cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess cooking oil.

Step Eight: 

Toss the chicken in the orange sauce you prepared earlier, then top it with chopped green onions and cilantro.

Step Nine: 

Serve your homemade orange chicken immediately to enjoy its freshness and flavor.

Tips

• If you have the time, you can marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. This helps infuse the chicken with extra flavor and tenderize it as well.
• Taste your sauce before adding the cooked chicken to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking.

What to Serve With Orange Chicken

When serving orange chicken, complement the dish with sides that enhance its flavors and textures. Steamed rice or fried rice are classic choices that soak up the delicious orange chicken sauce. For a healthier option, consider serving with brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, edamame, and green beans, add a crunchy contrast and vibrant color to the plate. Noodles, whether plain or tossed with a light sauce, can also be a satisfying accompaniment.

If you need more ideas, feel free to check What to Serve With Orange Chicken. 

FAQs

How can I make gluten-free orange chicken?

Simply check to ensure that the soy sauce, spices,  and cornstarch are all gluten-free, and substitute the all-purpose flour with any form of gluten-free flour you prefer.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken pieces at 400F for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and crispy, turning them halfway through cooking.

Can I make it in the Instant Pot?

Yes. For step-by-step instructions check out this Instant Pot Orange Chicken recipe.

What's the best way to store leftover orange chicken?

Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

More Chicken Recipes

while chicken is incredibly versatile to cook with, it can be challenging to find new and exciting ways to serve it. Much like this easy orange chicken recipe, this collection of more chicken recipes is sure to help you step up your culinary game.

Kung Pao Chicken

Butter Chicken

Chicken Piccata

Chicken Kebab