Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that your whole family will love, then this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bursting with flavor from fresh oranges and savory ingredients. The best part? You can whip it up in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, takeout will be a thing of the past!

This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma. It’s comforting, fun to make, and truly a crowd-pleaser. Gather your loved ones around the table—this orange chicken will surely bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you need something fast.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this dish.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice levels or swap in different proteins to suit your family’s tastes.
• Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner; they reheat beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items likely already in your pantry. With just a few steps, you’re on your way to a delightful homemade meal.

• 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
• ½ tsp. ginger powder
• ½ 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

One of the best parts about this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce if you like a little heat!
• Use other citrus: Experiment with lemon or lime juice for a unique citrusy flavor.

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces—about half an inch works great! Place them in a bowl and add in the flour, corn starch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and ginger powder until all pieces are well coated. This coating helps create that crispy texture we love so much.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this means it’s ready! Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry until they’re golden brown, which should take about 2–3 minutes per batch. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; it helps achieve that perfect crispiness!

Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce

While your chicken is frying away, grab another bowl and whisk together all sauce ingredients—fresh orange juice, corn starch, vegetable oil, low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, black pepper, and orange zest. This step is key because it brings all those vibrant flavors together.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is golden brown and crispy, transfer it to a hot non-stick skillet along with your freshly whisked sauce. Let them simmer together for about one to two minutes until everything is well-coated and the sauce thickens up beautifully.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Now comes my favorite part—serving! Plate up your delicious orange chicken alongside homemade lo mein noodles or fluffy white rice. If you like an extra touch of flair, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for that restaurant-style finish!

And there you have it—your very own Easy Orange Chicken Recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Making this Easy Orange Chicken at home is a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and ginger make a world of difference in flavor compared to bottled alternatives. They add brightness and depth to your sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking, giving you that delicious golden-brown color without making the chicken soggy.
• Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Chicken thighs cook quickly! Aim for 2-3 minutes per batch when frying. Overcooking can lead to chewy chicken, so keep a close watch.
• Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a mild flavor, feel free to skip the chili flakes. Conversely, if you like it spicy, adding more can give your dish an exciting kick!
• Let It Simmer: After mixing the fried chicken with the sauce, let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives your chicken a delicious coating.

How to Serve Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Serving your Easy Orange Chicken is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These lend a nice crunch and nutty aroma that enhances both the texture and taste of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Homemade Lo Mein Noodles: These stir-fried noodles are perfect for soaking up the flavorful orange sauce. Toss them with some vegetables for added nutrition!
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a crisp contrast to the tender chicken.
• White Rice: A classic choice! Fluffy white rice balances out the sweetness of the sauce and can be used to soak up every last drop.
• Crispy Egg Rolls: For an extra treat, serve crispy vegetable egg rolls on the side. They offer delightful crunchiness and pair well with Asian-inspired meals.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade Easy Orange Chicken will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy this delightful dish that brings restaurant quality right into your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade flavors throughout the week without the hassle. Here’s how to store it properly and keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality and taste.
• If you notice any excess sauce, you can drain it before storing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, microwave on low power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken breasts for thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

How do I make this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe spicier?

For an extra kick, add chili flakes to the sauce or toss in some diced fresh chili peppers when mixing everything together. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use bottled orange juice for this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

While fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, bottled juice can be used as a convenient alternative. Just look for 100% pure juice without added sugars or preservatives.

What side dishes pair well with this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or homemade Lo Mein Noodles. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad for added freshness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe inspires you to whip up something special at home! It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with the sides. Happy cooking!