Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese takeout right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish features tender chicken coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce that is sure to impress. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for something new, this homemade version rivals any restaurant offering.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Orange Chicken
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Coating
• Step 3: Heat the Oil
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Fry the Chicken
• Step 6: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce
• Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Orange Chicken
• Pair with Rice
• Garnish Options
• Fresh Vegetables
• Sauces and Extras
• How to Perfect Orange Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Orange Chicken
• Reheating Orange Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make orange chicken spicy?
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• What should I serve with orange chicken?
• Is orange chicken healthy?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll master this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice and zest delivers a bright, citrusy taste paired with a hint of spice.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal, or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Crispy and Delicious: Double frying the chicken ensures it remains crispy while being enveloped in the rich sauce.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of chili pepper flakes to match your family’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your homemade Orange Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for deep frying, allowing even cooking without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and preparing sauces.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Helps in safely handling hot chicken during frying.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Orange Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• ¼ cup water
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (fine salt is okay too)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
• 1 cup orange juice (about 2 to 3 oranges juiced)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (use less if you prefer it less orange-y)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (use more if your oranges are not as sweet)
• 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ tablespoon garlic (minced (about 1 clove))
• ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes (or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper)
• 1 stalk green onion (thinly sliced (white and green separated))
• Whole dry chili pepper (optional)
• Oil (as needed for cooking)

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Vigorously mix until the water is mostly absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water:
1. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
2. Add cornstarch and mix until evenly incorporated with no dry bits visible.
3. Finish by adding oil and mixing again until fully combined.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat the oil until it reaches approximately 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While heating the oil:
1. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Mix well and set aside; you can also prepare this ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot:
1. Place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time to avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary.
2. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden; remove from oil and drain for about 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Repeat frying process once more at high heat until crispy—about another 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

In a wok over medium heat:
1. Add a small amount of oil; once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers.
2. Stir-fry for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Pour prepared sauce into the wok:
1. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and glossy while stirring frequently.
2. Once ready, add fried chicken pieces; stir until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately over white rice or fried rice; garnish with green parts of green onion. Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving orange chicken can elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some tasty suggestions to enjoy this dish.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Add some veggies and eggs for a hearty side that complements the orange chicken perfectly.

Garnish Options

• Green Onions: Slice thinly and sprinkle on top for added freshness and crunch.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty flavor and appealing texture.

Fresh Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: A nutritious choice that adds color and a satisfying crunch.
• Crispy Snow Peas: Lightly sautéed, they provide a sweet contrast to the dish.

Sauces and Extras

• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce can enhance the flavors of your orange chicken.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy extra heat, this sauce adds a delicious kick.

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How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve the best orange chicken at home, follow these helpful tips to ensure flavor and texture.

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its tenderness and flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F while frying for that perfect crispy texture.
• Double Frying Technique: Frying the chicken twice ensures it is extra crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
• Prepare Sauce Ahead: Making the sauce in advance allows flavors to meld together nicely before adding it to the chicken.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your orange chicken right after tossing it in sauce to keep it crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fried Rice: A delicious mix of rice, vegetables, and egg; it’s a filling complement to orange chicken.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies or shrimp add a crunchy contrast.
3. Egg Fried Noodles: Soft noodles stir-fried with eggs and vegetables make for a comforting side.
4. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy offers a fresh, green option that balances out the richness of the chicken.
5. Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with assorted vegetables create a flavorful dish that pairs well with orange chicken.
6. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides crunch and freshness.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar lightens up your plate.
8. Miso Soup: This light soup adds warmth and complements the main dish without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the perfect orange chicken. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow time for marinating to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the oil at once can lower the temperature and result in soggy pieces. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring oil temperature: Not monitoring the oil temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to keep it at 375°F.
• Neglecting sauce consistency: If you don’t cook the sauce until bubbly and thick, it may not cling well to the chicken. Ensure it’s properly cooked for best adhesion.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality juice or ketchup can affect flavor significantly. Opt for fresh ingredients for a more delicious dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make orange chicken spicy?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more Chinese chili pepper flakes or crushed red pepper when making the sauce.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts; however, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

What should I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with white rice, fried rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Is orange chicken healthy?

While it is delicious, orange chicken is typically fried and has sugar in its sauce. Enjoy it as an occasional treat rather than a daily meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular cornstarch with gluten-free cornstarch, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if used.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken is not only tasty but also customizable. You can adjust sweetness or spice levels based on your preferences. Enjoy it as a comforting meal that rivals any takeout!