Chinese Orange Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken pieces with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. The chicken is typically battered and fried until golden and crunchy, then coated in a sauce made with orange juice, zest, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sugar and vinegar to balance the flavors. The result is a crispy, sticky chicken dish that’s sweet, savory, and has a bright citrus punch.
I first made Chinese Orange Chicken when I was craving takeout but wanted to try making it at home, and it turned out fantastic! The crispy chicken pairs beautifully with the vibrant, flavorful sauce, and the sweetness of the orange brings everything together. What I love most about this recipe is how easily you can adjust the sauce to your liking—add more orange zest for extra citrusy zing, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little more heat. Whether served over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, Chinese Orange Chicken is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a homemade takeout night!
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Family-style meals
- Casual get-togethers
- Fans of Asian-inspired cuisine
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Chinese Orange Chicken recipe will become your go-to:
- Restaurant-Style Flavor: Perfectly crispy chicken coated in a tangy-sweet orange sauce.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh oranges.
- Crispy Perfection: The chicken is double-fried for an extra crunchy exterior.
- Bright Citrus Sauce: The orange glaze is bursting with fresh, tangy flavors.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to suit your taste preference.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less time than ordering takeout.
- Perfect Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep components in advance for a stress-free meal.
- Versatile Add-Ons: Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Orange slices
Ingredient Highlights
- Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Adds natural citrus brightness to the sauce.
- Cornstarch Batter: Ensures a light and crispy coating on the chicken.
- Soy Sauce and Hoisin Sauce: Bring depth and savory umami flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Mix Coating: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip Chicken: Whisk the egg in a separate bowl. Dip chicken pieces in egg, then coat evenly in the cornstarch mixture.
- Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Cook Aromatics: In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, ginger, and orange zest until fragrant.
- Make Sauce Base: Add orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Toss Together: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
Serve:
- Plate and Garnish: Serve over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and orange slices.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chinese Orange Chicken:
- With Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the tangy sauce.
- On Fried Rice: Layer chicken over vegetable fried rice for a hearty meal.
- With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve alongside broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce leaves to create a handheld version.
- As a Meal Prep Option: Store in containers with rice for ready-to-go lunches.
- With Noodles: Toss with lo mein or soba noodles for a noodle dish twist.
- As a Party Appetizer: Serve bite-sized pieces with toothpicks.
- With Sweet Chili Sauce: Add a side of sweet chili for an extra kick.
- On a Salad: Top a bed of greens with the chicken for a tangy salad option.
- With Coconut Rice: Pair with coconut milk-infused rice for a tropical flair.
Additional Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before frying to enhance its taste.
- Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will give the sauce a more vibrant and authentic flavor compared to store-bought juice.
- Zest It Up: Add freshly grated orange zest to the sauce for a fragrant citrus kick.
- Achieve Crispy Perfection: Double-fry the chicken pieces for a crispier texture. Fry them once at medium heat and a second time at high heat.
- Thicken Sauce Properly: Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it slowly to the sauce while stirring to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Balance Sweet and Tangy: Adjust the sauce with rice vinegar or lemon juice if it’s too sweet or sugar if it’s too tangy.
- Add Some Spice: Incorporate red chili flakes or sriracha into the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Garnish Beautifully: Sprinkle sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions on top for a visually appealing and flavorful finish.
- Use Boneless Chicken Thighs: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier and more flavorful meat.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken right after mixing it with the sauce to maintain its crispiness and avoid sogginess.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Replace sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Air-Fried Chicken: Cook chicken in an air fryer for a healthier alternative.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle sesame oil into the sauce for added nuttiness.
- Orange Beef or Shrimp: Swap chicken with beef or shrimp for variety.
- Lighter Sauce: Use less sugar and more vinegar for a tangier sauce.
- Cashew Orange Chicken: Add roasted cashews for a crunchy element.
Special Equipment
- Deep Pan or Wok: For frying the chicken.
- Candy Thermometer: To monitor oil temperature for frying.
- Zester: For creating fine orange zest.
- Whisk: For mixing the cornstarch slurry.
- Tongs: For handling chicken during frying.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well, but thighs stay juicier when fried. - What can I use as a substitute for hoisin sauce?
Use a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a dash of sesame oil. - Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and fry the chicken in advance. Toss together just before serving. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop. - Can I freeze orange chicken?
Yes, freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months. - How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce gradually while whisking. - Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for better flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch. - What oil is best for frying?
Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. - Can I make this dish healthier?
Use air-fried chicken and reduce sugar in the sauce. - What can I serve with this for a full meal?
Pair with spring rolls, egg drop soup, or a cucumber salad.
Conclusion
Chinese Orange Chicken is a flavorful and tangy dish that combines crispy, golden-fried chicken pieces with a sweet and zesty orange sauce. The juicy chicken is perfectly coated in the vibrant sauce, offering a balance of sweetness, citrus, and a subtle hint of spice. This dish is a popular take-out favorite, and making it at home lets you enjoy the delicious flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The crispy texture of the chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, flavorful orange sauce, which is made with fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar and vinegar for balance. Whether served with steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables, Chinese Orange Chicken is a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
I can’t wait to see how your Chinese Orange Chicken turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!