Crispy Orange Chicken

If you love bold flavors, crispy textures, and a balance of sweet and tangy notes, Orange Chicken is the perfect dish to try at home. This popular Asian-inspired recipe combines crispy golden chicken bites coated in a sticky, zesty orange sauce that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-size pieces)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional for flavor)
• 1–2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk the egg with salt and pepper.
2. Coat chicken pieces in egg mixture, then toss them in a mix of cornstarch and flour until fully coated.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a saucepan, add orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring to a simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Add sesame oil and chili flakes (if using).

Step 3: Combine & Serve

1. Toss the crispy fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or extra orange zest.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken

• Crispy, golden chicken with a flavorful coating.
• A sweet, citrusy sauce made from fresh orange juice.
• Ready in less than 40 minutes.
• Perfect with rice, noodles, or even stir-fried veggies.

One of the best parts about making orange chicken at home is that you can control the flavour make it sweeter, spicier, or tangier to suit your taste. Plus, it’s fresher, healthier, and more budget-friendly than takeout.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with steamed jasmine rice for a classic combo.
• Try it with fried rice or garlic noodles for extra flavor.
• Add a side of stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal.

Tips for the Best Orange Chicken

• For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken pieces.
• Use fresh orange juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor.
• If you like it spicier, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha.

With its crispy bites and tangy-sweet sauce, orange chicken is always a crowd-pleasure. Give this recipe a try and bring the flavours of your favourite takeout right into your kitchen!

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