Orange Chicken Recipes

Orange Chicken Recipes 

When the craving hits for something sweet, tangy, and savory, orange chicken delivers on every level. That signature sticky orange glaze clings to tender chicken bites in a way that satisfies like few other dishes. Whether you're a fan of the classic takeout version or searching for a healthier or spicier alternative, there's an orange chicken recipe that fits your flavor needs. Let’s dive into three mouthwatering variations of this beloved dish: Classic Takeout-Style Orange Chicken, Healthy Baked Orange Chicken, and Spicy Orange Chicken Stir-Fry.

1. Classic Takeout-Style Orange Chicken

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

2 eggs

½ cup cornstarch

½ cup all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Oil for deep frying

For the sauce:

1 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)

Zest of 1 orange

⅓ cup sugar

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tsp minced ginger

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the chicken coating. Beat the eggs in one bowl. In another bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then into the flour mixture.

Fry the chicken. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Make the sauce. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken. Stir until the sauce coats a spoon.

Toss and serve. Add fried chicken to a large bowl and pour the hot sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly. Serve with steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

Why It Works:

This recipe mirrors your favorite restaurant’s version with its ultra-crispy coating and sticky orange glaze. The fresh orange zest adds brightness while the garlic and ginger provide depth.

2. Healthy Baked Orange Chicken

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp cornstarch

For the sauce:

¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

Zest of 1 orange

2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

Bake the chicken. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken pieces with olive oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly browned and cooked through.

Prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.

Combine and serve. Add baked chicken to the pan or a bowl, pour the sauce over, and stir to coat. Serve with steamed brown rice or quinoa and a side of broccoli.

Why It Works:

This lighter version skips deep-frying without sacrificing flavor. Baking the chicken gives it a golden exterior, and the naturally sweet orange sauce ties everything together. It’s perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

3. Spicy Orange Chicken Stir-Fry

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the chicken and stir-fry:

1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced

2 tbsp cornstarch

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 small red chili or ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the sauce:

¾ cup orange juice

1 tbsp orange zest

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp honey

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tsp garlic, minced

1 tsp ginger, grated

1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

Prepare the chicken. Toss sliced chicken in cornstarch to lightly coat. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and stir-fry the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Stir-fry vegetables. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and stir-fry bell peppers and chili until just tender, about 3–4 minutes.

Make the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, hoisin, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour into the pan and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.

Combine. Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Serve hot over jasmine rice or noodles.

Why It Works:

This stir-fry is quick, colorful, and loaded with bold flavor. The hoisin adds savory depth, while chili flakes bring the heat. It’s a balanced dish for those who like a bit of spice in their sweet-and-sour meals.

Tips for Orange Chicken Success

Use fresh orange juice when possible. Bottled juice often lacks the brightness and acidity that fresh juice provides.

Control the sweetness. You can always reduce sugar or use alternatives like honey or maple syrup for a more natural taste.

Add crunch. Top your orange chicken with toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or even crushed peanuts for added texture.

Vegetable boost. Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to round out the dish with greens.

Orange chicken is one of those dishes that adapts to your cravings and your health goals. Whether you're recreating a nostalgic takeout favorite, aiming for a lighter baked option, or going bold with a spicy stir-fry, you can enjoy the signature orange flavor in your own kitchen. 

 Helpful Reading 

From Seed to Salsa: Grow Tomatoes and Make Your Own Sauces 

https://www.amazon.com/Seed-Salsa-Tomatoes-Sauces-Harvest-ebook/dp/B0F4PGRYF5/

Growing Strawberries With Kids

https://www.amazon.com/Strawberry-Growing-Kids-Families-Fruit-ebook/dp/B0F73TV5GZ/

Hydroponic and Kratky Sweet Potatoes 

https://www.amazon.com/Hydroponic-Kratky-Sweet-Potatoes-Water-Based-ebook/dp/B0F7892GF5/

Pepper Microfarming for Profit

https://www.amazon.com/Pepper-Microfarms-Profit-Fresh-Harvest-ebook/dp/B0F6ZYBLRB/