Name: Easy Orange Chicken: Crispy Goodness Ready in 40 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Breasts (Boneless and skinless); to taste Salt and Pepper (For seasoning); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating); 1 large Egg (Beaten); 1/2 cup Corn Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose flour); 2 cups Vegetable Oil (For frying); 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed preferred); zest of 1/2 Orange (Use a microplane for zesting); 1/4 cup Honey (Can substitute with maple syrup); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Can substitute with apple cider vinegar); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated and fresh); 1 tablespoon Red Pepper Paste/Sambal Olek (Adjust to taste for heat); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Sliced); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Optional)

The aroma of sizzling chicken fills the kitchen as I prepare for a cozy evening with my family, and nothing makes me smile quite like the thought of Easy Orange Chicken on the dinner table. This dish not only brings that beloved takeout flavor home, but it’s also a practical choice for busy weeknights—ready in just 40 minutes! Imagine crispy chicken pieces bathed in a tangy orange sauce that even the kids can’t resist. With its quick prep and family-friendly nature, this recipe transforms a hectic meal into a comforting experience. Are you ready to whip up your own delicious batch and impress everyone? Let’s dive in!

What makes Easy Orange Chicken special?

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you crave hearty, homemade goodness.

Crispy Perfection: The chicken gets a crunchy, golden coating that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, sweet-savory sauce.

Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, perfect for bringing everyone together at the dinner table.

Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding fresh veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.

Healthy Twist: With lower calories compared to restaurant versions, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy.

If you’re looking for more delicious and quick chicken recipes, check out my Pesto Chicken Flatbread or Cheesy Cajun Chicken for meal inspiration!

Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; boneless skinless thighs can add extra flavor and juiciness.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor; season to taste.
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a crispy outer layer; ensure an even coat for maximum crunch.
• Egg – Acts as a binding agent for the coating; beat well before using.
• Corn Flour – Offers an extra layer of crunch; you can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying to create that perfect crispy texture; opt for oils with a high smoke point like canola.

For the Orange Sauce
• Fresh Orange Juice – Provides the primary flavor; freshly squeezed is preferred for the best taste.
• Zest of Half an Orange – Enhances the orange flavor in the sauce; a microplane makes zesting a breeze.
• Honey – Adds sweetness, balancing the tanginess; maple syrup can be a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Soy Sauce – Contributes umami and a touch of salt; choose tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to the sauce; apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth; fresh garlic for optimal flavor is best.
• Ginger – Offers a zesty warmth and enhances the flavor; fresh ginger is recommended for the finest taste.
• Red Pepper Paste/Sambal Olek – Adds a spicy kick; adjust to your heat preference for balance.

For Garnish
• Green Onions – Adds freshness as a garnish; they make your dish pop with color.
• Sesame Seeds – Provides texture and a lovely presentation; optional, but highly recommended!

Now that you have your Orange Chicken ingredients ready, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re all roughly the same size for even cooking. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a uniform coating. This enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and sets the stage for your delicious Easy Orange Chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Toss the seasoned chicken pieces in cornstarch, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Shake off any excess cornstarch to avoid clumping. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer that everyone loves in homemade orange chicken.

Step 3: Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten. Dip each piece of coated chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Following this, dredge the chicken in corn flour, pressing lightly to create a solid coating. This double-dipping method ensures maximum crunchiness in your Easy Orange Chicken.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches and fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken, allowing excess oil to drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a separate pot, combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Whisk the ingredients together and heat the mixture over medium heat until it gently simmers, taking care not to boil. This creates the tangy sauce that will envelop your crispy chicken.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth. Gradually add this slurry to your simmering sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency. This step enhances the texture of your Easy Orange Chicken, making it savory and sticky.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken pieces directly into the pot. Toss the chicken in the sauce until every piece is generously coated. This is the moment your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas, signaling that your Easy Orange Chicken is nearly ready to serve.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the sauced chicken to a serving platter. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with slices of green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the crunch, making your Easy Orange Chicken look as good as it tastes!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days to maintain its flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet or air fryer instead of the microwave to keep the chicken crispy and the sauce warm.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or use the defrost function on your microwave for a quicker option.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Orange Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your chicken and coat it in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce by whisking together the orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply fry the chicken and combine it with the sauce until heated through, ensuring that your dish remains just as delicious as when freshly made. This way, you can serve a family-favorite dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Easy Orange Chicken

Hot Oil is Key: Ensure your vegetable oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice elevates the flavor of your sauce; avoid store-bought options, which can taste bland.
Even Coating Matters: When breading your chicken, ensure an even coating of cornstarch and corn flour to achieve maximum crispiness in your Easy Orange Chicken.
Stir While Thickening: Keep stirring continuously when adding the cornstarch slurry to the sauce to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, sticky consistency.
Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve your Easy Orange Chicken immediately after tossing it in the sauce to maintain that irresistible crunch.

What to Serve with Easy Orange Chicken

The perfect meal is more than just the main dish; it’s about bringing together flavors and textures that make every bite a delight.

Steamed White Rice: This classic side absorbs the sweet-savory sauce, creating a satisfying base for the crispy chicken. It’s a comforting trio that your family will love.
Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with this vibrant dish that’s packed with veggies and flavors, providing a hearty contrast to the zesty orange chicken. A scrumptious twist on a traditional side!
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas adds freshness and nutrition, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken. The crunch complements the meal beautifully.
Cucumber Salad: This cool, crisp salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, sticky chicken, enhancing the overall meal experience with a zesty dressing that pops.
Egg Rolls: These crispy delights filled with veggies or meat are perfect for dipping into the sauce left on your plate, adding an exciting, crunchy element to your feast.
Lemonade: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade cuts through the richness of the orange chicken while enhancing its citrus notes, making for a perfect pairing.
Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate cake that provides a delightful contrast in flavors, rounding out your dining experience with something indulgent.

Easy Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions to enhance your Easy Orange Chicken!

Add Vegetables: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the frying phase for a colorful and nutritious boost. You’ll not only add vital nutrients but also create a more well-rounded meal that satisfies everyone’s cravings.
Dairy-Free: Swap honey for maple syrup to create a vegan-friendly version of the sauce. This simplistic adjustment allows you to enjoy the same delightful flavors without any animal products.
Rice Alternatives: For a lower-carb option, serve your orange chicken over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. This will give you all the flavors while keeping it light and healthy!
Heat Level: If you’re a spice lover, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or drizzle some chili oil into the sauce for a zesty kick. Adjust the spice according to your family’s preference for a personalized touch.
Crispier Chicken: Double coat the chicken by dipping it first in cornstarch, then the egg wash, and again in the corn flour. This extra step ensures an even crunchier outer layer that your family will love.
Orange Alternatives: Experiment with different citrus flavors by substituting orange juice with lemon or lime juice. This switch can give you a unique flavor profile while still maintaining that tangy essence.

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, try it out with this Rolled Chicken Feta or give your taste buds a kick with the Cheesy Cajun Chicken!

Easy Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for Easy Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, if you prefer a juicier option, boneless skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute. Just ensure the chicken is fresh, with a pink hue and no dark spots, which indicates it’s past its prime.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
To ensure your Easy Orange Chicken stays delicious, cool it down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in a skillet or air fryer to help maintain that amazing crispiness!

Can I freeze Easy Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cooked Easy Orange Chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely, and then place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my orange sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, don’t worry! Just mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. This process will help thicken your sauce to the perfect sticky consistency!

Is there a way to make this Easy Orange Chicken dish vegan-friendly?
Very! To make a vegan version, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan, which work wonderfully as a protein alternative. Use plant-based egg replacer for the coating, and ensure your honey is switched out for maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors without compromising your dietary preferences.

What can I do with leftover rice when serving Easy Orange Chicken?
The more, the merrier! Leftover rice can be a great side. You can simply sauté it with some vegetables or seasonings to make a quick fried rice. Alternatively, mix it in with the sauce and chicken for a comforting one-pot meal. No rice should go to waste!