Classic Orange Chicken

Classic Orange Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This flavorful dish combines the richness of fried chicken with the brightness of citrus, making it an irresistible meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange Chicken is a favorite for good reason: it’s the perfect balance of crispy texture and vibrant flavor. The orange sauce is made with fresh orange juice, zest, and savory seasonings, delivering a bold taste that is both comforting and exciting. It’s also a versatile dish that can be served with rice, noodles, or vegetables, making it an easy go-to for a satisfying meal at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Cornstarch

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Oil for frying

• Fresh orange juice

• Orange zest

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, minced

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Water

• Cornstarch (for sauce thickening)

• Green onions, for garnish

• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

directions

1. In a bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.

2. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg, then into the flour mixture to coat well.

3. Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

4. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.

5. Mix water with cornstarch to make a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook until the sauce thickens.

6. Add red pepper flakes if using, then toss the fried chicken in the sauce until well coated.

7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce to increase the heat.

• Baked Version: For a lighter alternative, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes until crispy.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu cubes for a plant-based version.

• Low-Sugar Sauce: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute to make a less sweet sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace flour with a gluten-free alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

What is the best cut of chicken to use for Orange Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option.

Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken in advance, but for best texture, toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving.

Is Orange Chicken spicy?

Traditional Orange Chicken has a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

Yes, coat the chicken as usual and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, add a little more cornstarch slurry and cook it for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Can I freeze Orange Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the fried chicken separately and the sauce in another container. Reheat and combine before serving.

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

Serve it over steamed white rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving and reheat it using a skillet or oven instead of the microwave.

Can I make this dish without sugar?

Yes, though it will alter the flavor. You can use a natural sweetener like honey or a sugar substitute to keep the sweetness.

Conclusion

Classic Orange Chicken is a deliciously balanced dish that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers the comforting satisfaction of takeout-style food right from your kitchen. With options for customization and easy storage, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again.