Description
Craving takeout? This copycat Orange Chicken is sweet, tangy, and better than the original—crispy, saucy, and ready in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- Zest of 1 orange
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy and thickened. Set aside.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Beat eggs in one bowl. In another, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt.
- Dip chicken pieces in egg, then coat in flour mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
- Heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
- Transfer chicken to a large bowl. Pour warm orange sauce over the top and toss to coat.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Low-carb: Swap flour and cornstarch for almond flour or keto-friendly breading.
- Baked version: Lightly oil breaded chicken and bake at 425°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Add veggies: Toss in sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas before serving.
- No fry zone: Try using an air fryer for a healthier crisp.
Keywords: orange chicken recipe, takeout orange chicken, crispy orange chicken, homemade Chinese food, better than takeout, sweet and tangy chicken, Asian chicken recipe, kid-friendly dinner, Chinese orange sauce, family dinner ideas