Crispy Orange Chicken

Crispy Orange Chicken

Craving that crispy, tangy, sweet-and-savory orange chicken but don’t want to leave your house?

You’re in luck! This Crispy Orange Chicken recipe is here to save the day—and your taste buds. It’s got all the bold flavors you love from takeout, but with a homemade twist that’s fresher, better, and oh-so-easy.

Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Plus, it’s way easier than you think—promise!

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces—it’s like giving them a little spa treatment before frying! In one bowl, mix up your marinade ingredients (soy sauce, garlic, ginger), and in another, prep your breading station with cornstarch and eggs. Think of it as setting up your own mini assembly line.

Step 2: Fry That Chicken Until Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—not smoking, we’re not trying to set off any smoke alarms here! Dip each piece of chicken first in the egg wash, then coat generously in cornstarch. Fry them in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy. Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan unless you want soggy chicken instead of crispy goodness .

Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce
While the chicken rests on paper towels (to soak up excess oil), grab a saucepan and whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and a splash of chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Simmer until thickened—it should coat the back of a spoon like syrup. Imagine the smell wafting through your kitchen… drool-worthy , right?

Step 4: Toss and Serve
Toss the crispy chicken in the glossy orange sauce until every piece is fully coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions because presentation matters, even when you’re eating at home. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for an extra layer of yumminess.

Pro Tips

• Double fry for extra crispiness: After the initial fry, let the chicken cool slightly, then give it a quick second fry at a higher temperature. Trust me, it’s worth it.
• Use fresh orange zest: Bottled juice works fine, but fresh zest adds an unbeatable zing.
• Don’t skip the resting step: Letting the chicken drain on paper towels prevents sogginess later.
• Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
• Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
• Freeze cooked chicken without sauce for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before tossing with fresh sauce.

Crispy Orange Chicken

Cooking Method: Frying, Sauteing, Simmering Cuisine: Asian Flavors Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 25 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 50 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 380

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Dietary:

Dairy Free Nut Free

Description

This Crispy Orange Chicken is packed with bold citrusy flavor, crunchy texture, and just the right amount of sweetness. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ¹⁄₂ cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¹⁄₄ tsp salt
• ¹⁄₄ tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ¹⁄₂ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 orange, zest
• ¹⁄₄ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• ¹⁄₄ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish
• Steamed white rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside while you prepare the breading station.

2. Set Up Breading Station:

   In one shallow bowl, place the cornstarch. In another, beat the eggs.

3. Fry the Chicken:

   Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, then dredge in cornstarch. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

   In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Remove from heat.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 380kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 12g19%

Total Carbohydrate 35g12%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 15g

Protein 28g57%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• For gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Adjust sugar levels based on personal preference.
• Double the sauce recipe if you love saucy dishes.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.

Keywords: Crispy Orange Chicken, Better Than Takeout, Easy Weeknight Dinner