Orange Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Tangy, and Irresistible!

If you’re craving that crispy chicken coated in a tangy, flavorful sauce, you’re in for a treat with this homemade orange chicken recipe! After trying this dish myself, I can tell you it’s the perfect combination of crispy chicken and a sweet, spicy, and citrusy sauce that will have you coming back for more.

Not only is it simple to make, but the vibrant orange flavor adds an irresistible twist to a classic favorite. In this article, I’ll take you step-by-step through how to make this delicious orange chicken from scratch.

Whether you want to serve it for a weeknight dinner or impress your friends at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. If you’re also in the mood for more dinner ideas, you might want to check out these French Dip Sandwiches. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Orange Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need for the crispy chicken and the zesty orange sauce. I’ll explain why each ingredient works so well together to make this dish unforgettable.

Chicken Ingredients:

6 boneless chicken thighs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp cornstarch
1 egg
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt to taste

Note: The flour and cornstarch mixture helps create that golden, crispy texture on the chicken. Using chicken thighs rather than breast meat adds more flavor and juiciness to the dish.

Orange Chicken Sauce Ingredients:

1.5 tsp minced garlic and ginger
2 cups orange juice
1 cup brown sugar
5 tbsp soy sauce
2.5 tbsp honey
2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp orange zest
Salt to taste
1/4 cup cornstarch mixed in some water (to thicken the sauce)

Note: The orange juice and zest give the sauce a fresh citrus punch, while the soy sauce adds a savory depth, and the brown sugar balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness.

Variations to Spice Up Your Orange Chicken

Feel free to experiment with the following substitutions and additions:

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option for those with lactose intolerance.
Sugar-Free: Substitute the brown sugar with a sugar alternative, like monk fruit or stevia, for a healthier version.
Flavor Enhancements: For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce. You can also toss in some sesame seeds for added texture.

Cooking Time

This dish is quick to prepare, so it won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s a list of essential equipment to get the job done:

Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: To fry the chicken and get it crispy.
Saucepan: To prepare the orange chicken sauce.
Mixing Bowls: For combining the chicken coating and sauce ingredients.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To safely remove the chicken from the oil.
Grater: To zest the orange.

How to Make Orange Chicken?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken. Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook faster and become nice and crispy. In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Beat the egg in a separate bowl, and then dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash before coating it with the seasoned flour mixture.

Step 2: Deep Fry the Chicken

Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully drop the chicken pieces in. Fry for about 6-8 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the oil and set it aside on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the minced garlic, ginger, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, and orange zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to make sure the sugar dissolves and everything blends together. After about 6-7 minutes, the sauce should start bubbling gently.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the sauce is simmering, mix 1/4 cup of cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture into the sauce while stirring. Continue to cook the sauce for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it’s not thick enough, just add more cornstarch until it reaches the perfect texture.

Step 5: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

Add the crispy chicken pieces to the sauce, making sure they’re all coated well. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Now, it’s ready to serve!

Additional Tips for Making Orange Chicken Better

From my own experience, I’ve learned a few tricks to take this recipe up a notch:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor. Don’t use store-bought orange juice if you can avoid it.
Get the Right Crispy Coating: The key to crispy chicken is the right ratio of cornstarch to flour. Too much flour and the coating won’t crisp up; too little and it won’t stick well.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier orange chicken, increase the cayenne or red pepper flakes. You can even add a splash of sriracha sauce for some extra heat.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels to avoid it becoming soggy before tossing in the sauce.

How to Serve Orange Chicken?

For a complete meal, serve this orange chicken with some fried rice or steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and more orange zest to add color and elevate the dish’s flavor.

If you want to go the extra mile, serve it with some stir-fried veggies or a side of steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. You could also check out more dinner ideas like the Crockpot Tortellini Soup for other delicious recipes to pair it with.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts for orange chicken:

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

How to Store Orange Chicken

Storing:

Orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer. Be sure to separate the chicken and sauce if possible to prevent the coating from becoming soggy.

Reheating:

To reheat, bake the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to crisp it up again. For the sauce, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This orange chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons:

Crispy and Delicious: The crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce is absolutely irresistible.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, sweetness, and even make it healthier with a few substitutions.
Quick and Easy: It’s surprisingly simple to make at home, and you don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to get great results.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs are recommended because they stay juicier and more flavorful when fried.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce separately in advance, but I recommend frying the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy.

How can I make the sauce less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar or honey. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar to balance the sweetness.

Can I add vegetables to the orange chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to stir-fry some bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas and toss them into the sauce for added texture and color.