Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken

  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Discover how to make easy Orange Chicken at home with this mouthwatering recipe featuring crispy, tender chicken coated with a vibrant, naturally sweet citrus sauce. Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests, delivering balanced flavors and a family-friendly appeal with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch (natural)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Orange Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (natural)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the cornstarch coating adhere better and ensures maximum crispiness.
  2. Coat and Fry the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch until fully coated but not clumpy. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking each piece until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a separate pan, combine fresh orange juice, brown sugar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, soy sauce (natural), finely minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the natural gelling agent and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a glossy, luscious finish.
  4. Combine and Toss: Add the crispy chicken pieces to the pan with the orange sauce. Toss well to coat each piece thoroughly with the bright, flavorful glaze. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to allow the sauce to cling perfectly to the chicken.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Orange Chicken to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of crispy chicken and tangy sauce.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thoroughly before coating to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Fry chicken in small batches to keep oil temperature steady and maintain crisp texture.
  • Use fresh orange juice for the brightest, freshest citrus flavor in the sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.
  • Use a wok or deep skillet for even heat distribution while frying and tossing the chicken.
  • For gluten-free, substitute cornstarch and soy sauce with gluten-free versions.
  • For a spicy version, add red chili flakes or cayenne powder to the sauce.
  • Reheat leftovers in a hot pan over medium heat to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Orange Chicken, crispy chicken, citrus sauce, quick dinner, family-friendly, gluten-free, plant-based sauce thickener

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/orange-chicken/