Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken tastes just as good, if not better than your favorite Chinese takeout! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish features crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a tangy orange sauce that bursts with flavor. The combination of sweet and spicy elements makes it a standout option for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Orange Chicken
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Thighs
• Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch
• Step 3: Heat the Oil
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Fry the Chicken
• Step 6: Double Fry for Crispiness
• Step 7: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 8: Cook the Sauce
• Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Orange Chicken
• With White Rice
• Over Fried Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Noodles
• As Part of a Stir-Fry
• On a Salad
• How to Perfect Orange Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Orange Chicken
• Reheating Orange Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Orange Chicken?
• How do I make orange chicken less spicy?
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Orange Chicken?
• What should I serve with Orange Chicken?
• How can I customize my Orange Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet and spicy in the orange sauce enhances the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with white rice, fried rice, or even as a filling for wraps—your choice!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level with more or less chili pepper according to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Orange Chicken, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having the proper equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels or wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying chicken evenly due to its deep shape, allowing plenty of oil without splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for marinating chicken and preparing sauces; they help keep your workspace organized.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces)
• ¼ cup water
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (fine salt is okay too)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
• 1 cup orange juice (about 2 to 3 oranges juiced)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (use less if you prefer it less orange-y)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (use more if your oranges are not as sweet)
• 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ tablespoon garlic (minced about 1 clove)
• ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes (or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper)
• 1 stalk green onion (thinly sliced (white and green separated))
• Whole dry chili pepper (optional)
• Oil (as needed for cooking)

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Thighs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Vigorously mix until the water is mostly absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has absorbed most of the water, add the eggs. Mix well until combined. Then add the cornstarch and mix until no dry cornstarch remains visible. Finally, incorporate the oil until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan, pour about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat it until it reaches 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While heating oil, prepare your orange chicken sauce. In a bowl or measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot at around 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into the oil one at a time. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing them from oil to drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally while frying.

Step 6: Double Fry for Crispiness

Ensure the oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken back for a second fry. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Sauté Aromatics

In a wok over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, stir-fry white parts of green onion with minced garlic and chili peppers for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook the Sauce

Give your prepared sauce another stir before adding it to the wok. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until bubbly and glossy while stirring frequently.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into it. Stir thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green parts of green onion on top. Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, serving it with the right accompaniments enhances the dining experience.

With White Rice

• A classic pairing, white rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making every bite delightful.

Over Fried Rice

• For a heartier meal, serve orange chicken over fried rice loaded with veggies and scrambled eggs.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Create fresh and light lettuce wraps by placing the orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves and adding some shredded carrots and cucumber.

With Noodles

• Toss orange chicken with lo mein or rice noodles for a satisfying and comforting dish.

As Part of a Stir-Fry

• Use orange chicken as part of a larger stir-fry platter with mixed vegetables for added crunch and nutrition.

On a Salad

• Top a fresh salad with orange chicken for a unique twist that combines protein with greens, drizzled with sesame dressing.

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How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve the best homemade orange chicken, follow these essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Marinate well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F while frying to ensure crispy, golden-brown chicken.
• Double fry: Frying the chicken twice gives it an extra crunch that makes it irresistible.
• Mix sauce thoroughly: Ensure your sauce ingredients are well combined for consistent flavor throughout each serving.
• Garnish creatively: Adding sliced green onions or sesame seeds not only enhances flavor but also improves presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the sweetness of the orange sauce.
2. Fried Rice – A flavorful option that complements the dish perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry – Quick-cooked veggies such as bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots add freshness and crunch.
4. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables provide an enjoyable textural contrast to tender orange chicken.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad offers a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of fried dishes.
6. Miso Soup – This warm, savory soup can be a comforting starter before indulging in your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring oil temperature: Failing to heat your oil properly can affect cooking time and texture. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 375°F before frying.
• Not mixing the sauce well: If you don’t mix the sauce thoroughly, it may not coat the chicken evenly. Whisk it well before adding to the pan.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality chicken or juice can diminish flavor. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Place cooled orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan with a splash of water or oil until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce.

How do I make orange chicken less spicy?

To reduce spiciness, simply use less chili pepper flakes in the sauce and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful.

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken pairs beautifully with white rice or fried rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Orange Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the dish for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Try this recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at home!