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CHINESE ORANGE CHICKEN

Sana Umer
This Chinese Orange Chicken is crispy, tender, and coated in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. Quick and flavorful, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or recreating restaurant-style Chinese takeout at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Orange Sauce:

  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
  • Zest of 1 orange

For Garnish:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Chicken: Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until coated.
  • Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • Make Sauce: In the same pan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry until sauce thickens.
  • Combine: Add crispy chicken back into the pan, tossing to coat evenly with orange sauce. Sprinkle with orange zest.
  • Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Chicken can be prepped and coated in advance; fry just before serving.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy variation.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
  • Allergy-Friendly Options: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch if needed.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to maintain crispiness.
Keyword crispy chicken recipe, homemade Chinese chicken, orange chicken stir-fry, quick dinner, restaurant-style chicken