How to Make Orange Chicken
There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of sweet and savory flavors that come together in a classic dish like orange chicken. With crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. In this guide, I’ll show you how to make orange chicken from scratch using simple, accessible ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the magic of this beloved dish!
Why It’s My Go-To
Orange chicken has always been a staple in my kitchen. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful burst of flavor that satisfies both young and old alike. The crispy chicken paired with a tangy orange sauce is a winning combination, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of your favorite takeout right into your home without the need for delivery.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed is best for the brightest flavor.
- 1 cup sugar – This balances the acidity of the orange juice.
- ½ cup rice vinegar or white vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce – Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- 1 teaspoon ginger – Fresh ginger adds a warm spice to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes – For a touch of heat.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Used for thickening the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cold water – To mix with cornstarch.
- Orange zest from 1 orange – Enhances the citrus aroma.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 3 eggs – For battering the chicken.
- 1 cup cornstarch – For coating the chicken.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Adds texture to the batter.
- Oil for frying – Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
- Garnish with green onions and orange zest – For a fresh finish.
Prep & Cook Tools
Gathering the right tools is just as important as having the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large mixing bowl – For mixing the batter and the sauce.
- Whisk – To beat the eggs and combine the sauce ingredients.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – For frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
- Slotted spoon – To remove the chicken from the oil.
- Cooking thermometer – To ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Serving platter – To present your delicious orange chicken.
How to Make Orange Chicken — Do This Next
Ready to make your own orange chicken? Follow these steps for a dish that’s bursting with flavor:
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. This mixture will become the sweet and tangy sauce that coats your chicken. Set it aside for now.
2. Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Add this mixture to the sauce in the large bowl and whisk until fully combined. This will ensure your sauce thickens beautifully during cooking.
3. Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and all-purpose flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, letting any excess drip off, then coat with the cornstarch-flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for that perfect crunch!
4. Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for frying and will help achieve that golden-brown color.
5. Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the prepared sauce and bring it to a simmer. Once the sauce thickens, add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the orange chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of orange zest for a fresh touch. Serve it hot over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Budget & Availability Swaps
If you’re looking to save a bit on ingredients or need alternatives, consider the following:
- Orange Juice: You can use bottled juice, but fresh juice is always preferred for flavor.
- Sugar: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a natural sweetener.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
- Chicken Breasts: Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Flavor Logic
The magic of orange chicken lies in its balance of flavors. The sweetness from the sugar and orange juice contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of the vinegar and soy sauce. Adding ginger and garlic enhances the depth of flavor, while the chili flakes provide a subtle kick that brings the dish to life. This harmony of flavors is what makes orange chicken a favorite in many households.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store them:
- Store the orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Your Top Questions
Can I make orange chicken gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with General Tsos Chicken for a delicious combo.
Can I use another fruit juice instead of orange juice?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus juices like lemon or lime, but keep in mind that the flavor will vary. Orange juice provides a unique sweetness that’s hard to replicate.
Is orange chicken spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The red chili flakes add a mild heat, but you can reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder dish.
Reader Favorites
Here are some popular recipes from my blog that you might enjoy:
- Honey Garlic Chicken – A deliciously sweet and savory alternative.
- Dried Orange Slices – Perfect for adding a decorative touch to your dishes.
Before You Go
Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure! I hope you enjoy making and sharing this orange chicken recipe as much as I do. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Don’t hesitate to adjust the flavors to your liking, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!
How to Make Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Add to the sauce and whisk until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat with the cornstarch-flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, cooking in batches. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer. Add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and orange zest. Serve hot over rice or with steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep chicken moist.
