Orange Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Tangy, and Irresistible
There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of Orange Chicken a dish that perfectly balances crispy fried chicken with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze. This Chinese-American classic has become a favorite in households and restaurants alike, thanks to its golden crunch and addictive orange sauce. Whether you’re craving takeout flavors at home or want to impress family and friends, this homemade Orange Chicken recipe delivers the same bold taste with fresher ingredients and more control over the flavors.
In this post, you’ll find the full recipe with easy-to-follow instructions, plus extra tips, variations, and serving ideas to make your Orange Chicken truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Orange Sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This blend creates the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor for the chicken.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture until evenly coated. Shake off any excess to ensure an even fry.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan—to achieve a golden, crispy crust. Once cooked, remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, orange zest, garlic, and ginger. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a slight kick of heat.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Toss the hot, crispy chicken with the warm orange sauce until every piece is well coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables.
About the Recipe
The Origins of Orange Chicken
Although inspired by Chinese flavors, Orange Chicken is actually a product of Chinese-American cuisine. It gained immense popularity in the U.S. through restaurants like Panda Express, where it became a signature dish. Its sweet, tangy, and slightly savory sauce was designed to appeal to American palates, making it a beloved fusion comfort food.
Tips for Crispy Chicken Every Time
- Use cornstarch and flour together: Cornstarch keeps the crust light and crisp, while flour adds body.
- Maintain the right oil temperature: Around 350°F (175°C) ensures golden chicken without excess grease.
- Fry in small batches: This prevents soggy chicken and keeps the coating crunchy.
Variations to Try
- Healthier Option: Bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying.
- Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for creative twists.
- Flavor Boosts: Add honey for sweetness, chili paste for heat, or lime juice for extra tang.
Serving Suggestions
Orange Chicken shines when paired with fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice. For added nutrition and color, serve it alongside steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. It also makes a fantastic filling for lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Nutritional Insights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350–400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
To reduce calories, try air frying and cutting back on sugar.
Conclusion
Homemade Orange Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen. With its crispy chicken bites and tangy-sweet orange glaze, this dish is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table. The best part? You can easily customize it to match your taste preferences, from making it spicier to swapping in healthier cooking methods.
Next time you’re craving takeout, skip the drive-thru and whip up this easy Orange Chicken recipe at home—you’ll be amazed at how fresh and flavorful it tastes. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!
