Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout spot, this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is just what you need! With a zesty homemade sauce and tender chicken pieces, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you crave something comforting without the fuss.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare. You can enjoy the flavors of orange chicken without having to leave your home! Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike – who doesn’t love crispy chicken coated in a tangy sauce?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The easy orange chicken can be prepped in advance, allowing for stress-free weeknight meals.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh orange juice and spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it with rice or noodles, and don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine. You’ll be surprised at how easily they come together!

• 6 whole boneless chicken thighs (or 2 lbs. of chicken tenderloins)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. corn starch
• 1 tsp. black pepper (or less to taste, fresh ground)
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. paprika (to add color to the chicken)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• ¾ cup fresh orange juice
• 1½ tbsp. corn starch
• 2 tbsps. vegetable oil
• 3 tbsps. low sodium soy sauce
• 1½ tbsp. rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 2 tbsps. brown sugar
• ½ tbsp. grated ginger
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp. black pepper (fresh ground)
• 1 tsp. orange zest
• Chili flakes (optional to add heat)

Variations

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to spice things up or customize it to your liking:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken thighs, try this recipe with diced tofu or shrimp for a different twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add more chili flakes or even some Sriracha if you like your dish with an extra kick!
• Citrus swap: Experiment with lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice for a tangy variation.

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized cubes and placing them in a bowl. Add in the flour, corn starch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and ginger powder to coat the chicken evenly. This step ensures that every piece is seasoned just right and will create that lovely crispy texture when fried.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

In a deep frying pan, bring vegetable oil to medium-high heat. Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown—about 2 to 3 minutes should do it! Be careful not to overcook them; we want them juicy and tender inside!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the chicken is frying, whisk all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Once well-mixed, transfer this mixture into a hot non-stick skillet or frying pan over low heat. Simmering will help thicken the sauce beautifully while letting all those flavors meld together.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is fried perfectly golden brown, transfer it into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Gently stir everything together so each piece is coated well with that tasty sauce! Let them simmer together for about one or two minutes before removing from heat—this step helps infuse those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your Easy Orange Chicken warm over homemade Lo Mein Noodles or fluffy white rice! For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you like.

Enjoy your homemade feast that’s sure to impress everyone around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Making your own orange chicken at home can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange juice and garlic elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to bottled alternatives. The zest and aroma from fresh ingredients will make your dish more vibrant and authentic.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the chicken to fry evenly and become crispy instead of steaming, which is key for that delicious texture.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar in the sauce. If you love a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a little more; just remember to taste as you go!
• Simmer for flavor infusion: After mixing the fried chicken with the sauce, let them simmer together for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This step makes a big difference in taste!
• Experiment with heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, don’t hesitate to add chili flakes or even some sliced fresh chilies into the sauce. It’s a great way to customize your dish according to your taste buds!

How to Serve Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Serving your Easy Orange Chicken in style can turn an ordinary dinner into something special! Here are some ideas that will not only make your dish look appealing but enhance its flavors too.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the sauce.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle these on top for a nutty crunch that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
• Orange wedges: Serve with slices of fresh orange on the side for an extra citrusy zing and vibrant presentation.

Side Dishes

• Steamed white rice: A classic companion that soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Homemade Lo Mein Noodles: These stir-fried noodles are perfect for creating a complete Asian-inspired meal alongside your orange chicken.
• Vegetable stir-fry: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in soy sauce adds nutrition and brightness to your meal.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil provides a light contrast to the richness of the chicken dish.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal at home! With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your homemade Easy Orange Chicken. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade flavors throughout the week. With a few simple storage techniques, you can make this dish ahead of time and savor it whenever you like.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavor and texture.
• For best results, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to reheat.

Freezing

• Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen orange chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just ensure they are cooked until tender and juicy.

How do I make this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative and use cornstarch instead of flour for coating the chicken.

Can I add vegetables to my Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas would be great additions. Stir-fry them briefly before adding the chicken and sauce for a colorful twist.

Is there an alternative to brown sugar in this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

You can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a substitute if you’re looking for alternatives to brown sugar while still keeping that sweet flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s not only quick and simple but also packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!