When it comes to satisfying comfort food, few dishes stand out like orange chicken. It’s that perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken paired with a flavorful, tangy sauce that’s both sweet and slightly spicy. This dish has its origins in Chinese-American cuisine, where it became a beloved takeout staple in the ’80s. Although it’s often associated with restaurant-style meals, making it at home allows you to enjoy all of its deliciousness while controlling the flavors to suit your taste. Plus, there’s something special about creating crispy, golden chicken and tossing it in that incredible, glossy orange sauce right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a fun weeknight dinner or want to impress guests, this Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect go-to dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This homemade version of orange chicken has all the crispy, zesty goodness you’d expect from a favorite takeout order, but with the added bonus of being fresh and customizable. The crunchy chicken paired with the tangy orange sauce is a combination that never fails to please. And best of all, it’s so easy to make! The recipe breaks down into simple steps, so you can be serving up a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is both foolproof and rewarding.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

HOW TO MAKE ZESTY CHINESE ORANGE CHICKEN:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. This is a simple step, but it helps to enhance the flavor right from the start. Next, dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Once coated, toss it in cornstarch, ensuring that each piece is evenly covered. The cornstarch will help achieve that irresistibly crispy texture once fried.

2. Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want about 2 inches of oil in the pan to fry the chicken properly. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), start frying the chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this could make the chicken soggy instead of crispy. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Prepare the Orange Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, granulated sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The red pepper flakes are optional, but they add just a hint of heat that balances out the sweetness of the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a boil, mix the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water) into the sauce, stirring until it thickens—this should only take about 2 minutes.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now comes the fun part! Add the crispy chicken pieces to the thickened orange sauce, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The sauce should cling to the chicken in a shiny, sticky layer, making it look as good as it tastes.

5. Serve:
Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and fresh flavor. Serve the dish hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables to create a complete meal.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• For Enhanced Flavor: Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. It adds brightness and depth that store-bought juices can’t replicate.
• Control the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you love a little extra kick, feel free to add more!
• Healthy Alternative: For a lighter version, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying them. The result will be slightly less crispy but still delicious!
• Crispy Chicken Tip: To keep the chicken extra crispy, serve it immediately after tossing it in the sauce. If you leave it too long in the sauce, the chicken may lose its crunch.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Diet: Can be made gluten-free (use gluten-free soy sauce)

NOTES:

• Chicken Options: While chicken thighs are often preferred for their tenderness and juiciness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used. If using chicken breasts, be mindful of cooking them just right to avoid drying them out.
• Making the Sauce: Freshly squeezed orange juice really makes a difference in the flavor of the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with store-bought orange juice, but fresh juice adds a brighter, more authentic taste. The orange zest also intensifies the citrus flavor, so don’t skip it!
• Adjusting Spice Levels: The red pepper flakes in the sauce give it a subtle heat. If you’re making this dish for young kids or those who prefer less spice, you can skip the red pepper flakes entirely. Conversely, if you love spice, you can add more or even use a small amount of chili paste for an extra punch.
• For a Crunchier Coating: If you prefer an even crunchier chicken, try double coating the chicken. After the first dip in cornstarch, dip it back in the beaten egg and then coat it again in cornstarch before frying. This will create an extra layer of crispy texture.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, be aware that the chicken might lose some of its crispiness when stored. To revive it, reheat the chicken in a hot pan with a little oil or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of its original crunch.
• Serving Variations: Serve this dish over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even fried rice for added flavor. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a more balanced meal.
• Freezing: While the chicken can be frozen, the sauce may lose its glossy texture when reheated. If you plan to freeze leftovers, store the sauce and chicken separately. Reheat the chicken in a hot pan to crisp it up again before combining it with the sauce.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Approximate calories per serving: 450 kcal
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can. Chicken breasts are leaner, so they’ll be slightly less juicy, but they’ll still work perfectly in this recipe.

How can I make the sauce less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar by half and taste-test as you go. You can always add a little more sugar if you feel it’s too tart.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh to maintain the crispiness of the chicken, you can make the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, fry the chicken fresh and coat it in the sauce.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, then toss it in the sauce to re-coat.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

CONCLUSION:

This Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken is the kind of dish that brings a little bit of excitement to your dining table. Crispy, tangy, and sweet, it’s sure to be a family favorite or a hit at any gathering. With simple ingredients and an easy process, it’s a dish that both beginners and seasoned cooks can master. So, gather your ingredients, get your frying pan ready, and enjoy a homemade takeout favorite that’s bound to impress!