Go Back

Easy Orange Chicken

A quick and delicious sweet and savory dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a rich orange sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Boneless chicken thighs can be used for extra tenderness.
  • 1 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed is preferred.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup sugar Can reduce to make the dish healthier.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Coat chicken for crispiness.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For frying the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust according to spice preference.
  • Green onions for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined to create the sauce.
  2. In another bowl, toss the cut chicken pieces in cornstarch until fully coated.
Cooking
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken, stir to coat, and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding water or orange juice if needed.