Name: Crispy Chinese Orange Chicken: Homemade and So Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into bite-size pieces; chicken thighs can also be used.); 2 large Eggs (Acts as a binder; for vegan version, use a flax egg.); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Can be omitted for gluten-free version.); 1/2 cup Flour (Use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.); 1 cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed is best.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Consider substituting with honey.); 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar (No direct substitutions recommended.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Opt for tamari for a gluten-free dish.); 1 teaspoon Ginger (Use fresh or powdered.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic (Fresh garlic will pack more flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (Adjust according to your heat preference.); 1 teaspoon Orange Zest (Use from the same orange as juice.); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Chopped.); 1 teaspoon Extra Orange Zest (Optional.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of citrus wafted through the air, transforming a simple evening into something extraordinary. Homemade Chinese Orange Chicken is my go-to recipe when I crave that sweet, spicy goodness reminiscent of my favorite takeout, but with the comfort of all-natural ingredients. This dish not only brings happiness to my dinner table, thanks to its quick prep time of just 35 minutes, but it also guarantees a healthier alternative to the fast-food version. Each piece of crispy, golden chicken pairs perfectly with a glossy orange sauce that balances sweetness and spice, making it a sure-fire hit with family and friends. Curious about how to recreate this beloved classic at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Homemade Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious dinner that rivals your favorite takeout.

All-Natural Ingredients: Every bite of this homemade Chinese Orange Chicken is made with simple and wholesome components, ensuring you know exactly what goes into your meal.

Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer a spicier kick or want to make it gluten-free using tamari, this recipe can easily be tailored to your liking!

Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, leaving everyone asking for seconds. For more enticing options, check out Cream Cheese Chicken for an equally delightful meal!

Comforting Flavor: Enjoy the comforting fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that make this dish not just a dinner, but an experience worth savoring.

Chinese Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-size pieces for the perfect crispy texture. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
Eggs – Acts as a binder for a delicious coating. For a vegan version, use a flax egg or similar plant-based alternative.
Cornstarch – Provides a delightful crispiness when frying. Can be omitted for a gluten-free version by using all-purpose gluten-free flour.
Flour – Grants the chicken a crispy exterior. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed for gluten-free diets.

For the Sauce

Orange Juice – The sauce’s base, offering sweetness and tang. Freshly squeezed is ideal; bottled juice works in a pinch.
Sugar – Balances the tartness of the orange juice. Consider substituting with honey or a lower-calorie sugar alternative.
Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar – Adds essential acidity to the sauce. No direct substitutions are recommended for the same flavor.
Soy Sauce – Adds depth with saltiness and umami flavor; opt for tamari for a gluten-free dish. Coconut aminos can be a soy-free alternative.
Ginger – Introduces warmth and richness to the sauce. Powdered ginger is easier to incorporate, but fresh can be adjusted in quantity.
Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic – Enhances the aromatic profile of the sauce. Fresh garlic will pack more flavor but needs to be diced finely.
Red Chili Flakes – Brings a touch of spice; adjust according to your heat preference. Omit them for a milder flavor.
Orange Zest – Elevates the citrus flavor for freshness. Use from the same orange as the juice for best results.

For Garnishing

Green Onions – Adds a fresh, colorful touch to the dish. A recommended garnish for a pop of color and flavor.
Extra Orange Zest – Intensifies the citrus essence before serving. Optional but adds delightful brightness.

Enjoy making this homemade Chinese Orange Chicken that will make you forget about fast food!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a medium pot over medium heat, combine orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, and red chili flakes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce begins to slightly bubble and become aromatic.

Step 2: Thicken Sauce
While the sauce is simmering, mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously. Cook the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a glossy consistency, then remove it from heat and stir in the fresh orange zest for added flavor.

Step 3: Dredge Chicken
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. In another dish, beat the eggs until frothy. Dip each bite-sized piece of chicken first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture. Set the dredged chicken pieces aside on a plate, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
In a heavy pot or deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in the coated chicken in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, ensuring a crispy texture in your homemade Chinese Orange Chicken.

Step 5: Combine
Once all the chicken is fried and crispy, return it to the pot and pour the prepared orange sauce over the chicken. Gently toss to coat each piece evenly in the glossy sauce, reserving some for serving over rice later if desired. You should see every piece glistening with delicious orange goodness.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the succulent Chinese Orange Chicken to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions and an extra sprinkle of orange zest. To enhance your meal, serve over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, elevating the entire dining experience with wonderful flavors and a pop of color.

Make Ahead Options

These crispy Chinese Orange Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking a time-saving solution! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance by mixing the orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can dredge the chicken pieces in the flour and cornstarch mixture and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before frying. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken fresh for that crispy texture, then combine it with the prepped sauce. This method ensures your homemade Chinese Orange Chicken is just as delicious, saving precious time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Chinese Orange Chicken

When you’re ready to elevate your homemade Chinese Orange Chicken into a full meal, consider these delightful pairings that perfectly complement each other.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice is a classic base, soaking up the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully. Its light texture balances the crispy chicken, creating a harmonious plate.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color. Tossed in a bit of soy sauce, it complements the sweetness of the orange sauce while providing a nutritional boost.
Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles are a comforting addition. Their rich flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the tangy chicken, making for an irresistible combination.
Cucumber Salad: A simple mix of sliced cucumbers and rice vinegar, this salad brings a cool, crunchy element to your meal. Its bright flavor helps to cleanse the palate after indulging in the rich orange chicken.
Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, the green beans offer a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Their freshness cuts through the sauce’s sweetness and adds depth to your plate.
Fortified Orange Drink: A sparkling orange beverage or fresh-squeezed juice enhances the citrus notes of the dish. Its refreshing quality pairs perfectly with the flavors of your Chinese Orange Chicken.

Each of these sides brings unique textures and flavors to your meal, ensuring the deliciousness of your homemade orange chicken shines even brighter!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep extra sauce separate to help maintain crispness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays crispy.

Serving Reminder: Keep any reserved orange sauce on the side to drizzle over the chicken right before serving for that freshly-made taste!

Expert Tips for Chinese Orange Chicken

Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying; too low, and the chicken will absorb oil, becoming soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in small batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy chicken.
Sauce Adjustment: Always taste your sauce before combining it with the chicken. Adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference for the best Chinese Orange Chicken experience.
Storage Know-How: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but keep extra sauce separate to maintain crispness when reheating.
Experiment with Zest: Don’t skip the orange zest! It brightens the sauce and enhances the overall flavor, making your dish truly shine.

Chinese Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful variations! Each twist adds a unique touch to this classic dish.

Citrus Swap: Replace orange juice with lemon or lime for a zesty twist. The tangy flavor brightens the sauce and offers a refreshing alternative.
Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers to the mix for extra nutrition and color. These vegetables pair beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce.
Baked Version: Skip the frying and bake the dredged chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy. This method is healthier and still delivers a satisfying crunch.
Sweetener Switch: For lower calories, substitute sugar with honey or your favorite natural sweetener. Adjust to taste, ensuring a perfect balance between sweetness and tang.
Spicy Kick: Increase red chili flakes or add sliced hot peppers to the sauce for a lively heat. If you prefer less spice, simply omit them for a milder dish.
Dairy-Free: To keep this dish dairy-free and still tantalizing, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free tamari. This swap is ideal for various dietary needs.
Serving Variation: Instead of rice, serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture. This adds a nutritious and trendy spin to the meal.

For an equally mouthwatering experience, don’t forget to check out Cream Cheese Chicken. It’s another family favorite that’s sure to please!

Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces. However, chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, making your Chinese Orange Chicken even more delicious and tender.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Chinese Orange Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispy when you reheat it, store any extra sauce separately. This way, you can enjoy that delightful texture just as it was when freshly made.

Can I freeze Chinese Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely and then place it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its delicious crispy texture.

What can I substitute for soy sauce to make it gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version of Chinese Orange Chicken, you can easily substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is made without wheat. Alternatively, coconut aminos is a fantastic soy-free option that also provides a lovely flavor.

How do I revive leftover crispy chicken when reheating?
To ensure your Chinese Orange Chicken remains crispy after reheating, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through and crispy again. Drizzle the reserved orange sauce over the top just before serving for that fresh, zesty taste!

What if my sauce turns out too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t worry! Simply mix a bit more cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry and gradually whisk it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken up nicely. This ensures your Chinese Orange Chicken is coated perfectly!