Go Back
+ servings
Crispy homemade orange chicken served with rice and vegetables.

Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken

A bright and sticky orange sauce clings to crunchy pan-fried chicken for a comforting, quick, and delicious meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 460

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces Thighs give juicier results.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For gluten-free, swap for a gluten-free flour.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch Use 2 tablespoons for the slurry.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for pan-frying
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (not concentrate) Fresh juice keeps the sauce bright.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar See substitutions below for lower-sugar option.
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Zest of 1 large orange To brighten the flavor.
For Garnish
  • to taste sliced green onions
  • to taste sesame seeds

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg with the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the chicken and toss so every piece is evenly coated.
  3. Pat the chicken dry for extra crispness before coating.
Cooking
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding. Cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  3. Transfer cooked pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and add the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir the cornstarch with a little cold water to make a smooth slurry, then whisk it into the simmering sauce slowly. Keep stirring until the sauce turns glossy and thickens, about 1 minute.
  6. Stir in the orange zest.
  7. Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss gently to coat each piece with the sticky orange sauce.
  8. Remove from heat immediately to keep the coating crisp.
Serving
  1. Serve the orange chicken over steamed white rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20g

Notes

For best results, serve immediately after coating. Pair with jasmine or short-grain rice, sautéed bok choy, or a crunchy slaw.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!