Print

Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Savor the delightful taste of homemade Orange Chicken, a dish that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Each tender piece of chicken is coated in a crispy exterior and drenched in a vibrant, sweet and tangy orange sauce that bursts with flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at your next gathering. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ tablespoon garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1 stalk green onion, thinly sliced
  • Oil, as needed for cooking

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Vigorously mix until the water is mostly absorbed by the chicken.
  2. Add the eggs and mix until well combined. Add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no visible dry cornstarch. Finally, add the oil and mix until well incorporated.
  3. In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat it until it reaches 375°F.
  4. While waiting for the oil to heat, in a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.
  5. Once your oil is hot, gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oil and let drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Return fried chicken pieces back to hot oil for a second fry for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack.
  6. In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once heated, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers; stir-fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant. Pour in prepared sauce; increase heat to medium-high. Cook until bubbly and thickened while stirring frequently.
  7. When sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into wok with sauce. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  8. Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice and garnish with sliced green parts of green onion.

Nutrition

save me