Name: Chinese Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Thighs (Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating the chicken); 1 cup Vegetable Oil (For frying); 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed for the best flavor); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Low-sodium is preferred); 1/4 cup Sugar (To balance the citrus tang); 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar (For extra tanginess); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (For an authentic flavor); 1 clove Garlic, minced (For the sauce); 1 tbsp Ginger, grated (For the sauce)

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introduction

This recipe makes bright and sweet orange chicken. It cooks fast and tastes like takeout at home. For a very quick idea, see three-ingredient orange chicken for a simple take.

why make this recipe

You make this dish for the sweet orange taste and the crisp chicken. It uses few tools and feels easy to cook. If you want more step by step notes, check the easy orange chicken recipe for extra help.

how to make Chinese Orange Chicken

You fry the small chicken pieces until they turn gold and crisp. Then you make a bright orange sauce and toss the chicken in the sauce so it sticks. For a baked or roasted idea, you can read about roasted orange chicken (2) as a one-pan change.

Ingredients :

1 lb Chicken Thighs (Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating the chicken)
1 cup Vegetable Oil (For frying)
1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Low-sodium is preferred)
1/4 cup Sugar (To balance the citrus tang)
1 tbsp Rice Vinegar (For extra tanginess)
1 tbsp Sesame Oil (For an authentic flavor)
1 clove Garlic, minced (For the sauce)
1 tbsp Ginger, grated (For the sauce)

You can also try a roast version for whole pieces, as shown in roasted orange chicken.

Directions :

Coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch. Heat the oil until hot, then fry the chicken in small batches until golden brown and crisp. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
In a separate pan, mix orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Heat over medium and bring to a light simmer. Stir until the sauce thickens a little.
Add the fried chicken to the sauce. Toss until each piece gets a shine. Cook 2 to 3 more minutes so the sauce sticks well.

how to serve Chinese Orange Chicken

Serve this chicken over white rice or brown rice. You can add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side. For a different main or side idea, try a baked dish like baked ranch chicken with your meal.

how to store Chinese Orange Chicken

Let the chicken cool to room temp. Put it in an airtight box and store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot pan or in the oven to keep the crust a bit crisp. Do not leave at room temp for more than two hours.

tips to make Chinese Orange Chicken

Dry the chicken pieces well before you coat them to get a crisp crust.
Fry in small batches so the oil stays hot.
Taste the sauce as it cooks and add a little more sugar or vinegar if you want more sweet or tang.
Use fresh orange juice for the best bright flavor.
If you want extra shine, add a small spoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken at the end.

variation (if any)

Use chicken breast if you want less fat.
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Make it in the oven: coat the chicken and bake until crisp, then toss with sauce.
Add sesame seeds and chopped green onion on top for a final touch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh?
A: Yes. Cut the breast into small pieces and watch the cook time so it does not dry.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Keep the sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm it before you toss the chicken.

Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?
A: Serve right away. If you must wait, keep the chicken on a rack so steam does not make it soft.

Q: Can I use bottled orange juice?
A: You can, but fresh juice gives a brighter, fresher taste.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free cornstarch mix to keep it safe for gluten-free diets.