Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
Better than takeout, this easy orange chicken recipe features crispy chicken bites coated in a sticky citrus sauce packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients
For the Chicken
6 boneless chicken thighs or 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon orange zest
Chili flakes (optional)
Optional Garnishes
Toasted sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
For Serving
White rice
Homemade lo mein noodles
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Dice the chicken into 1/2-inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
Add:
Flour
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Onion powder
Paprika
Ginger powder
Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
Carefully add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes.
Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
Fresh orange juice
Cornstarch
Vegetable oil
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Brown sugar
Fresh ginger
Garlic
Black pepper
Orange zest
Chili flakes if desired
Pour the sauce into a hot nonstick skillet or frying pan.
Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
Simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors combine.
Remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot over white rice or lo mein noodles.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but tenderloins work great for a leaner option.
Fresh orange juice gives the sauce the best flavor and natural sweetness.
Cornstarch helps create the classic glossy takeout-style sauce.
Add chili flakes for a spicy orange chicken variation.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Find it online: https://allrecipesmade.com/easy-orange-chicken-recipe/
