Description
Easy Orange Chicken is a quick and tasty homemade version of the popular Chinese takeout dish. Tender chicken pieces are lightly coated, fried to crispy perfection, and tossed in a sweet, tangy, and zesty orange sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. Ready in under 30 minutes, this family-friendly meal pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
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Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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Cornstarch
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
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Orange juice (fresh or bottled)
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Soy sauce
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Brown sugar or honey
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Fresh ginger, grated
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Rice vinegar or white vinegar
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Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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Green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare chicken: Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch until evenly coated.
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Cook chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Make sauce: Whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
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Cook sauce: Pour sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let thicken for 3-4 minutes.
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Combine: Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
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Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or sriracha.Bake coated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.Substitute orange juice with mandarin or tangerine juice for a different citrus flavor.Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
