You know that amazing orange chicken you always order from your favorite takeout spot?

Yeah, that sticky, crispy, sweet, tangy goodness.

Well, guess what? Today, you and I are gonna make it right in your kitchen, and honestly—it’s gonna taste even better than the restaurant.

Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll be proud to show off. Let’s make it NOW!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-size pieces)

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 2 eggs

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)

• Zest of 1 orange

• 1/3 cup soy sauce

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 tsp minced ginger

• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional but great)

• Chili flakes to taste (optional, for heat)

Optional Garnish:

• Chopped green onions

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Extra orange zest

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Dip each chicken piece in egg, then coat in flour mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat oil in a large pan or deep fryer (about 350°F). Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water). Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Add cooked chicken to the sauce and toss until every piece is well coated.

Step 7: Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and more orange zest if you like. Serve hot!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s what makes the chicken super crispy.

• Don’t overcook the sauce; it can become too thick or sticky.

• Don’t use low-quality orange juice. Fresh really makes a difference.

Recipe Best Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier results.

• Fry in batches so the oil stays hot and the chicken gets crisp.

• Add chili flakes if you like a little heat.

• Double the sauce if you love it extra saucy.

• Use fresh orange zest—it’s a game changer.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed white rice or jasmine rice.

• Add a side of stir-fried veggies.

• Spoon some sauce over noodles for a twist.

• Serve in lettuce cups for a fun, lighter version.

• Great with a cold cucumber salad on the side.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep it crispy.

• Freeze the fried chicken and sauce separately for the best texture.

• Reheat frozen chicken in the oven or air fryer, then toss with warmed sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yep! Just be careful not to overcook it so it doesn’t dry out.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: You can, but it won’t be as crispy. An air fryer works better if you want to avoid oil.

Q: Can I use bottled orange juice?
A: Yes, but fresh orange juice gives the best flavor.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: Not at all, unless you add chili flakes.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can prep everything in advance, but combine the chicken and sauce just before serving.

Q: What’s the best oil for frying?
A: Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. They handle high heat well.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free soy sauce and swap flour with a GF alternative.

Conclusion

And there you have it, homemade orange chicken that’s crispy, saucy, and straight-up addictive.

Try it out, have fun with it, and hey—if you make it, drop a comment or tag me with your plate.

I wanna see your delicious creation!💖

You Might Also Want To Try

• Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
• Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole

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Continue to Content

Orange Chicken

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Crispy bites of chicken coated in a sticky, sweet orange glaze with just the right kick. It’s like your favorite takeout, but better (and fresher) right from your kitchen.

Print

Ingredients

• Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut bite-size
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Orange Sauce:
• 1 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp garlic
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
• Chili flakes (optional)
• Garnish:
• Green onions
• Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Mix eggs and set aside. Combine flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
2. Coat chicken in egg, then flour mixture.
3. Fry chicken until crispy. Drain.
4. Simmer all sauce ingredients (except slurry) in a pan.
5. Add cornstarch slurry. Cook until thick.
6. Add chicken. Stir to coat.
7. Garnish and serve.

Notes

• Use fresh orange juice if possible.
• Don’t skip the zest.
• The air fryer works great, too.

Nutrition Information

Yield 4
Amount Per Serving Calories ~450 per serving

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and leave a comment or tag me on Pinterest — I can't wait to see what you've made!💖