There’s something undeniably uplifting about a burst of citrus in the kitchen. Imagine chopping fresh oranges and inhaling the sweet, zesty fragrance that ignites your senses and elevates an ordinary weekday meal into something extraordinary. This Orange Chicken recipe emerged from an evening when I craved a vibrant dish that would leave my family raving long after dinner plates were cleaned.
You won’t believe how easy it is to create a meal that rivals your favorite takeout, all from the comfort of your home. With just a few simple ingredients—bone-in chicken, fresh garlic, and a delightful orange sauce—you can whip up a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but a hit with loved ones too.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply bring some excitement back into your weeknight cooking routine, this Orange Chicken is a versatile crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious, homemade delight that’s sure to brighten any dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Orange Chicken
- This Orange Chicken is unbelievably easy to make, allowing you to serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The vibrant flavors of fresh oranges combined with tender chicken create a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
- Plus, the beautiful presentation garnished with sesame seeds or green onions makes it as visually appealing as it is tasty, making it ideal for impressing guests or spicing up a weeknight dinner.
Orange Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Fresh garlic – adds a fragrant aroma; feel free to adjust based on your garlic preference.
For the Marinade
• Low-sodium soy sauce – enhances umami flavor while keeping the dish healthier.
For the Orange Sauce
• Oranges – zest and juice from two ripe oranges provide a fresh, vibrant flavor that's essential for the Orange Chicken.
• Brown sugar – balances the acidity of the oranges with a warm sweetness.
• Cornstarch – helps thicken the sauce for that perfect glossy finish.
For Cooking
• Vegetable oil – ideal for frying the chicken to a crispy, golden brown.
Feel free to make this Orange Chicken your own by adding a splash of sriracha for heat or tossing in some colorful veggies!
How to Make Orange Chicken
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Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce and minced garlic. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, giving them a good toss to ensure everything is well-coated. Let them soak up the flavors for 15-30 minutes.
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Prepare the sauce: In another bowl, mix the fresh orange juice and zest, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth and well-combined—this vibrant sauce is what will make your Orange Chicken shine!
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Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and let it sizzle until beautifully golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
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Combine: Pour that luscious orange sauce over the cooked chicken and gently simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step thickens your sauce, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated with that zesty goodness.
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Serve: Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh green onions, and serve alongside steamed rice or veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors with every bite!
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra orange juice for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Orange Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy Orange Chicken fresh within 2 hours of cooking for optimal flavor and safety.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.
Freezer: Freeze Orange Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat Orange Chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, making sure to stir in any leftover sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and garlic for up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, you can prepare the orange sauce (mixing together the juice, zest, brown sugar, and cornstarch) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This way, when you're ready to cook, simply heat the oil, add the marinated chicken, and follow with the sauce until thickened. For quality, store the components separately until cooking. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll have a delightful meal on the table with minimal effort!
Orange Chicken Variations
Let your creativity shine as you explore delicious variations for Orange Chicken that cater to your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for gluten-free tamari to enjoy the same savory kick without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce for a zesty heat that elevates every bite. Spice lovers will appreciate the balance of sweet and heat!
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Crispy Orange Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces in a mix of cornstarch and breadcrumbs before frying for extra crunch. The delightful texture adds a fun twist to your dish.
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Veggie-Packed: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas when cooking the chicken for a burst of color and nutrition. This addition makes it a one-pan meal that's satisfying and healthy.
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Citrus Medley: Use a blend of orange and grapefruit juice for added complexity and a sweet-tart flavor profile that tantalizes your palate. It's a refreshing twist that surprises the senses!
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Honey-Orange Chicken: Replace brown sugar with honey for a luscious sweetness that perfectly complements the citrus. This twist introduces a floral note that's truly delightful.
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Soy-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a delicious, soy-free alternative that's equally tasty. Your dish remains packed with flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
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Orange Chicken Bowls: Serve your Orange Chicken over quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal. Top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, creating a nourishing bowl to savor.
What to Serve with Orange Chicken?
Imagine a beautifully set table, the aroma of sweet and tangy orange chicken wafting through the air, inviting your family to gather around for a delightful meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the zesty orange sauce perfectly, creating a satisfying base for every bite.
- Sautéed Broccoli: The vibrant green crunch of tender broccoli adds a fresh, healthy contrast, balancing the citrusy flavors of the chicken.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy and savory, these classic appetizers complement the dish's sweetness, perfect for a beloved Asian-inspired dinner.
- Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy dressing offers a cool contrast to the warm chicken, enhancing each bite.
- Sweet & Sour Pineapple: The tropical sweetness elevates the flavor profile, making a delightful pairing that feels like a celebration.
- Chilled Green Tea: This subtly sweet beverage acts as a palate cleanser, enhancing the overall dining experience and providing a refreshing sip.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat brings a delightful end to your meal, echoing the tropical vibes of the orange chicken.
Each pairing enhances the dining experience while creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave everyone raving about your meal!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the marinade.
- Don't rush the marinating process; letting the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes helps develop a richer taste.
- When preparing the orange sauce, make sure to mix the cornstarch thoroughly to avoid lumps and achieve that perfect silky texture.
- Remember to watch your cooking temperature; medium-high heat is crucial for getting that lovely golden brown crust without overcooking the chicken.
Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best oranges for this recipe?
Choose ripe oranges that are firm without any dark spots or blemishes. The zest should have a bright orange color, indicating freshness. The juiciness of ripe oranges is essential for the best flavor in your Orange Chicken, so give them a gentle squeeze—if they feel slightly soft, they're perfect!
How should I store leftover Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze your Orange Chicken! First, ensure it has cooled completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin when making Orange Chicken?
If your sauce turns out too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into your sauce while it's simmering. Let it cook for an additional minute or two, and you should see a noticeable thickening. Always stir well to avoid lumps!
Is this Orange Chicken suitable for people with soy allergies?
Great question! If you or someone you're serving has a soy allergy, I recommend using coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce. It has a similar umami flavor and is gluten-free, making it a suitable alternative for your Orange Chicken.
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce and minced garlic. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, giving them a good toss to ensure everything is well-coated. Let them soak up the flavors for 15-30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the fresh orange juice and zest, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and let it sizzle until beautifully golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken and gently simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh green onions, and serve alongside steamed rice or veggies.
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