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Orange Chicken-1

Orange Chicken

This classic Chinese-American dish features crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or for entertaining friends.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

  • 600 grams boneless, skinless chicken thighs Cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
  • 60 grams cornstarch
  • 30 grams all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 120 ml vegetable oil For frying
  • 240 ml orange juice Preferably fresh
  • 90 grams granulated sugar
  • 60 ml soy sauce
  • 60 ml rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest From about 1 large orange
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger Minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust for spice level
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Mixed with 2 tablespoons water for slurry
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced For garnish
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds For garnish

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 medium mixing bowl
  • 1 saucepan
  • 1 frying pan or wok
  • 1 tongs
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 paper towels
  • 1 slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg and then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mixture until well coated.
  2. In a large frying pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken pieces in batches without overcrowding. Fry each piece for about 4-5 minutes, turning so all sides are golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Discard used oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  3. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
  4. Stir the cornstarch slurry to recombine, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  5. Add the fried chicken to the pan with the reserved 1 tablespoon oil, then pour in the thickened orange sauce. Toss the chicken to coat evenly and cook for 1-2 more minutes, just until everything is hot.
  6. Transfer the orange chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately, ideally with steamed rice.

Notes

You can substitute chicken breast for thighs if preferred but thighs retain more moisture.
For added crunch, serve right after tossing with sauce.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to taste or omit for a mild version.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days, but best enjoyed fresh.