Crispy Orange Chicken

Crispy Orange Chicken is the kind of dish that brightens up any dinner table with its tantalizing flavors and delightful crunch. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering, where the addictive combination of succulent chicken and zesty orange sauce quickly became the star of the meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or wanting to impress guests at your next gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of takeout right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Making It

Crispy Orange Chicken isn’t just another dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and textures. This recipe stands out because it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for all ages—making it a hit for family dinners. The subtly sweet and tangy orange sauce beautifully complements the crispy chicken, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to treat your loved ones to something special without breaking the bank.

“This was so easy to make and absolutely delicious! My kids couldn’t get enough, and I can’t believe it’s healthier than takeout!” – Satisfied Home Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

This Crispy Orange Chicken recipe will walk you through a simple yet effective process, ensuring you achieve that perfect crunch and mouthwatering glaze. You’ll start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then setting up a breading station with flour and beaten eggs. Frying the chicken until golden brown and tossing it in a quick orange sauce—it’s easier than you think! Let’s dive into the ingredients before we get started on the cooking!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this delightful recipe:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (for tender meat)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the crispy coating)
• 2 large eggs (beaten, to help the flour adhere to the chicken)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (for that zesty flavor)
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (to balance the sweetness)
• 2 tbsp sugar (to enhance the sauce)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced, for depth of flavor)
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder (to complement the orange zest)

Feel free to use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option, or swap the chicken for tofu to create a vegetarian version!

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

• ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
• 🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
• 🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
• 🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
• 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Set up the breading station: In one bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Bread the chicken: Dip each piece in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers (around 350°F).
5. Fry the chicken: Cook the chicken in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger powder. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
7. Combine and serve: Toss the fried chicken pieces in the orange sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Best Way to Serve

For a delightful meal, serve your Crispy Orange Chicken over a bed of steaming rice or alongside fluffy noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. You can also pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables to add some color and nutrition to your table.

Keeping Crispy Orange Chicken Fresh Longer

To ensure your leftovers stay delicious, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken—just remember to separate the sauce for maximum flavor retention. When reheating, aim for a moderate heat to retain the crispiness, avoiding the microwave if possible.

Pro Chef Tips

• To achieve the crispiest coating, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.
• Consider double-dipping the chicken in the egg and flour for an even thicker, crunchier crust.
• A splash of vinegar in your sauce can enhance the flavors and add an interesting tang.

Creative Twists

Why not experiment with this recipe by adding a twist? You can incorporate additional spices into your flour mixture, like paprika or cayenne pepper, for a kick. Alternatively, drizzle some sriracha or chili paste into the orange sauce for a hot-sweet fusion. For a healthier take, substitute half of the chicken with a medley of colorful bell peppers and snap peas.

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
A: You can expect to spend about 30 minutes preparing and cooking the Crispy Orange Chicken.

Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Pork, shrimp, or even firm tofu can work well with this recipe.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour or cornstarch, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

Enjoy bringing this crisp, vibrant dish to your table—you and your guests are in for a colorful and tasty experience!

Crispy Orange Chicken

---

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a tangy and sweet orange sauce, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder

---

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. In one bowl, mix flour with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F).
5. Cook the chicken in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger powder. Simmer for approximately 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the orange sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour or substitute chicken with tofu. Best served over rice or noodles with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: orange chicken, crispy chicken, family dinner, quick recipe, takeout style