Orange Chicken Recipe: Who doesn’t love the sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy bite of orange chicken? This dish has become a crowd-pleaser at many Chinese-American restaurants, especially thanks to its crispy chicken coated in a sticky orange sauce.
Whether you’ve tasted it at Panda Express or your local takeout, this recipe will help you recreate that flavor at home. And guess what? It’s easier than you think!
In this article, I’ll walk you through each step so you can make restaurant-quality orange chicken from scratch.
Ingredients Needed for Orange Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup cornstarch (for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works best)
For the Orange Sauce:
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- ½ cup sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Deep frying pan or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk for blending the sauce
- Slotted spoon (for frying)
- Tongs or chopsticks
How to Make Orange Chicken Recipe – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry using a paper towel to ensure they fry well. Season the chicken with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Once seasoned, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch. This step gives the chicken a light crust, making it extra crispy after frying.
Step 2: Making the Batter
In a bowl, mix ½ cup of cornstarch, flour, a pinch of salt, and cold water until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water to adjust.
Step 3: Frying the Chicken
Heat the oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy—about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Preparing the Orange Sauce
While the chicken cools, it’s time to make the star of the dish: the orange sauce. In a saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Add minced garlic and ginger for that extra kick of flavor. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Step 5: Combining the Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce is simmering, toss the fried chicken pieces in the pan. Make sure every piece is coated with the glossy, fragrant sauce. Give it a gentle stir to avoid breaking the crispy coating on the chicken.
Step 6: Thickening the Sauce
If the sauce feels too thin, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water. Pour the slurry into the sauce and stir until it thickens. You’re aiming for a sticky, syrup-like consistency that clings perfectly to the chicken.
Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
Top the orange chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation. This dish goes wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles. For a full meal, you can add a side of sautéed broccoli or a cucumber salad.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken
- Balance the flavor: If the sauce feels too sweet, add a splash more vinegar to balance it.
- Avoid sogginess: Add the chicken to the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
- Reheat properly: Use an oven instead of a microwave to reheat leftovers to maintain crispness.
Common Variations of Orange Chicken
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add more chili flakes or sriracha for an extra kick.
- Baked Orange Chicken: Instead of frying, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Gluten-Free Orange Chicken: Use gluten-free soy sauce and swap flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Healthier Modifications
- Air Frying Option: Use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a healthier twist.
- Lower Sugar Alternative: Replace sugar with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness.
- Reduced Sodium: Choose low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
FAQs about Orange Chicken Recipe
1. What is orange chicken made of?
Orange chicken is typically made with bite-sized pieces of chicken, coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a tangy orange sauce. The sauce often includes ingredients like orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Is orange chicken spicy?
While traditional orange chicken is not very spicy, some recipes add red pepper flakes or chili sauce to introduce a bit of heat. You can adjust the spice level according to your preference.
3. Can I make orange chicken without frying?
Yes! Instead of deep-frying, you can bake or air-fry the chicken to make it healthier. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or using an air fryer gives similar crispy results.
4. What should I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Adding stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, complements the dish nicely.
5. How do I store and reheat leftover orange chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or a skillet to maintain the chicken’s crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
6. Can I make orange chicken gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free flour and soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos, you can easily make this dish gluten-free.
7. What is the difference between orange chicken and General Tso’s chicken?
While both dishes are sweet and savory, orange chicken has a distinct citrusy flavor from orange zest or juice, whereas General Tso’s chicken is more focused on a sweet and spicy taste with a hint of umami.
Conclusion
The Orange Chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet orange glaze. With its perfect balance of citrus zest and savory notes, this dish brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. From marinating the chicken to preparing the sauce, every step contributes to the mouthwatering result.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors—try adding a hint of chili for spice, a dash of garlic for depth, or swap oranges with mandarins for a twist. Orange Chicken is a versatile dish that you can easily customize to suit your taste. So, get creative and enjoy making it your own!
References
For further reading and to validate the information provided in the Orange Chicken Recipe with Post Links, we recommend consulting these reputable sources:
- AllRecipes – Offers a variety of Asian-inspired recipes, including detailed steps and cooking tips for making orange chicken at home.
- Delish – Known for easy-to-follow recipes, with creative takes on popular dishes like orange chicken.
- Food Network – A reliable resource featuring expert recipes, chef tips, and meal ideas, perfect for expanding your culinary skills.
- Bon Appétit – Provides comprehensive cooking guides, including variations on traditional orange chicken recipes.
These sources will enhance your understanding of the dish while giving you additional insights and cooking techniques.
