Crispy Orange Chicken served with greens on a plate

Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that takes your taste buds on a delightful journey. The combination of crispy chicken and zesty orange sauce brings a burst of flavor to any meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or when you want to impress your friends. Making your own orange chicken is not only rewarding, but it’s also healthier and more delicious than takeout!

How to Make Crispy Orange Chicken

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water to make a batter that’s smooth but thick enough to coat the chicken.

  2. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

  3. Make the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, mix the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers. Gradually add the cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce is glossy and thick.

  4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy chicken pieces to the saucepan. Gently toss the chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.

  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the crispy orange chicken to a serving dish and drizzle with sesame oil if desired.

How to Serve Crispy Orange Chicken

Crispy Orange Chicken is best served hot. Pair it with steamed rice or fried rice to soak up the tasty sauce. Add some steamed vegetables on the side, such as broccoli or snap peas, for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a nice finish.

How to Store Crispy Orange Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispy, reheat it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Avoid using a microwave as it may make the chicken soggy.

Tips to Make Crispy Orange Chicken

  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture.
  • Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice as it may not provide the same taste.
  • If you want extra crunch, add an additional layer of cornstarch to the chicken before frying.

Variation

You can easily turn this recipe into a sweet and sour chicken by adding pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the sauce. This variation will give you a fruity twist to the classic dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can provide a juicier texture.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour and soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives like rice flour and tamari sauce.

How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in the sauce to suit your taste. You might also add a bit more soy sauce for a saltier flavor.