There’s something magical about the combination of crispy chicken, a tangy-sweet orange glaze, and the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables. This Gluten-Free Orange Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with a healthier twist. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or a fun family meal, this recipe takes a beloved takeout classic and makes it both gluten-free and utterly irresistible.

Growing up, orange chicken was a special treat, often reserved for Friday nights or family gatherings. This homemade version delivers all the nostalgic flavors with none of the gluten, making it accessible to everyone. The golden, crispy chicken pieces coated in a bright, citrusy sauce will have you savoring every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthier than takeout: Gluten-free and made with fresh ingredients.
• Quick and easy: Ready in less time than it takes to order delivery.
• Bursting with flavor: The orange sauce is sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
• Versatile: Works well with chicken thighs, chicken breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/3 cup tapioca starch
• 2 tbsp gluten-free flour
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1–2 tbsp avocado oil (or your preferred cooking oil)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp tapioca starch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1/2 tsp ginger, finely grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
• Orange zest, for garnish

How to Make Gluten-Free Orange Chicken:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken
   Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they crisp up nicely when cooked.
2. Coat the Chicken
   In a bowl, combine tapioca starch, gluten-free flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well-coated.
3. Cook the Chicken
   Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, lower the heat and add grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add orange juice, coconut aminos, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Thicken the Sauce
   Stir in the tapioca slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until fully coated.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle orange zest over the top for a burst of fresh citrus flavor. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite gluten-free noodles.

Helpful Tips:

• Fresh orange juice is key. Bottled juice doesn’t have the same vibrant flavor. Squeeze your own for the best results.
• Avoid soggy chicken. Make sure your chicken pieces are completely dry before coating them.
• Prep everything in advance. This recipe moves quickly once you start cooking, so have all your ingredients ready to go.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes:

• You can swap rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~15g
• Fat: ~10g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.

What can I use instead of tapioca starch?
Arrowroot powder works as a great substitute in this recipe.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Store the chicken and sauce separately and reheat with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in separate containers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Gluten-Free Orange Chicken, check out these other flavorful dishes:

• Best Chicken Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons
• Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

Conclusion

This Gluten-Free Orange Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a way to bring the comforting flavors of your favorite takeout dish into your home, with a healthier twist. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Give it a try, and let the bright, zesty flavors of orange brighten your day!

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