Easy Orange Chicken

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This easy Orange Chicken recipe has tender, crispy chicken pieces drenched in a tangy, sweet orange sauce. It is family-friendly, 30-minute meal that brings a delicious restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table.

I love making this popular Chinese-American Orange Chicken recipe because it’s like having a taste of your favorite takeout right at home. If you are a fan of orange chicken from PF Chang’s or Panda Express, you will love this copycat recipe.

If you are looking for more chicken recipes that will pack a flavorful punch, try our slow cooker bbq chicken drumsticks and creamy lemon chicken and asparagus.

Why I love this recipe

• This recipe is a total lifesaver on busy weeknights. It comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor.
• Everyone loves this dish! It’s perfect for potlucks, game days, or family dinners.
• This orange chicken is even better the next day! It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• chicken breasts
• eggs
• cornstarch
• flour
• salt
• garlic powder
• soy sauce
• vegetable oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

• fresh orange juice (2 oranges)
• chicken stock
• soy sauce
• sugar
• garlic powder
• red pepper flakes
• rice vinegar
• cornstarch
• Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Looking for more takeout-inspired recipes? Try our ground beef Mongolian noodles, Teriyaki chicken bowls, or Korean beef and rice bowls!

Step by step

1. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken with salt, garlic powder, soy sauce, and eggs. Mix well.
3. Then, in another bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the chicken and stir until well coated. Let sit.

1. To make the sauce, mix cornstarch with water. Add orange juice, chicken stock, soy sauce, sugar, garlic powder, red chili flakes, and rice vinegar. Stir until smooth.
2. In a large frying pan, heat the oil. Once heated, fry the chicken in batches for 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Meanwhile, in a medium pot, heat the sauce mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 to 8 minutes.
4. Toss the chicken in with the sauce until chicken is thoroughly coated. Add your favorite garnishes and enjoy!

Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to match your taste. You can add more vegetables to the dish, like bell peppers or broccoli, to make it a complete meal. You can also make this recipe with boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. For a less sweet version, cut back on the sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener.

Serving suggestions

• serve over slow cooker rice, egg fried rice, garlic rice, cauliflower rice, or lo mein noodles
• serve with egg rolls for a full takeout-style dinner!
• pair with a side of sautéed or roasted vegetables
• add a fresh cucumber corn salad for a refreshing contrast
• top with chopped peanuts or cashews for added crunch

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave.

Leftover orange chicken stored with the sauce won’t have the same crispy texture. If you meal prepping I recommend storing the sauce and chicken seperately until ready to heat and eat.

If you try this recipe please comment and give it a 5-star rating below, I love hearing from you!