If you’re craving sweet, crispy, and flavorful Chinese takeout, this homemade orange chicken recipe is the answer. Made with tender chunks of fried chicken tossed in a sticky orange glaze, this dish is bursting with bold citrus flavor and just the right amount of spice. Best of all? It’s quick, easy, and made with everyday ingredients.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this chinese orange chicken recipe will rival your favorite restaurant — and it’s healthier, too!
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. While it’s often associated with fast-food chains like Panda Express, its roots trace back to traditional Chinese cooking techniques, adapted for Western palates.
The dish combines elements of Chinese stir-frying with American love for bold, sugary sauces. The result? A sticky, crunchy, citrus-kissed chicken dish that’s loved worldwide.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make authentic-tasting orange chicken at home:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cornstarch (or a mix of cornstarch and flour)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably from real oranges)
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor depth)
Instructions
1. Prepare and Fry the Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dip each piece into the beaten eggs, then coat well with cornstarch.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken in small batches until golden brown and crispy (5–6 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (2–3 minutes).
- Finish with a splash of sesame oil, if using.
3. Combine and Serve:
- Place fried chicken in a large bowl and pour the hot orange sauce over it.
- Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or fried rice.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a bit of extra orange zest.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for a brighter, more natural citrus flavor.
- For extra crunch, double-fry the chicken — let it rest for a minute after the first fry, then fry again for 1–2 minutes.
- Want a healthier version? Try air frying or baking the chicken and using less sugar in the sauce.
- Control the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes or adding Sriracha for a spicier kick.
What to Serve with Orange Chicken
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Vegetable fried rice
- Lo mein or chow mein noodles
- Steamed or stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy
- Spring rolls or potstickers
Calculate Your Nutrition Before Lunch: A Smart Step Toward Healthier Eating
Before diving into your midday meal, taking a moment to calculate your nutirition before lunch can make a big difference in maintaining a balanced diet. Understanding your calorie intake, macronutrient distribution (carbs, protein, fat), and nutrient needs helps you make informed choices that align with your health goals—whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or simply eating cleaner. By assessing what you’ve already consumed earlier in the day, you can adjust your lunch to fill in nutritional gaps, avoid overeating, and stay energized throughout the afternoon.
Storing and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- To reheat and maintain crispiness, use an oven or air fryer.
- The sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Variations and Substitutes
- Vegetarian: Use tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken.
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari and ensure cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar: Use honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar, and cut the amount in half.
- Low-Oil: Skip deep frying and pan-fry or bake the chicken until golden and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is orange chicken authentic Chinese food?
Orange chicken is a Chinese-American invention, not a traditional dish in China. However, it’s inspired by Chinese cooking methods and flavors.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving for best texture.
Can I freeze orange chicken?
Yes, freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat in the oven and stir-fry with the reheated sauce.