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Homemade Orange Chicken

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This Homemade Orange Chicken features crispy, golden chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. It’s a takeout favorite made better at home, with juicy meat, crunchy coating, and a sticky citrus glaze that makes every bite irresistible.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the orange sauce:
  • 3/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dip each piece in beaten eggs, then dredge in a mixture of cornstarch and flour until coated.
  2. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
  3. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Add cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Cook and stir until thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add crispy chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Serve immediately over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

  • Swap chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
  • Bake or air fry chicken for a healthier option.
  • Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
  • Mix in steamed broccoli or snap peas for a fuller meal.
  • Store sauce and chicken separately for better reheating texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/homemade-orange-chicken/