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Homemade Chinese Orange Chicken

Homemade Chinese Orange Chicken
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This Homemade Chinese Orange Chicken recipe offers crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, glossy orange sauce that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes with fresh ingredients, it’s a delicious and healthier alternative to takeout favorites, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Orange Sauce

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Optional Garnishes and Extras

  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Thin strips of orange peel for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture, then toss evenly in cornstarch to coat each piece lightly. This creates the base for a crispy texture.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy outside while juicy inside. Drain on paper towels.
  3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens into a sticky, glossy glaze. Adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
  4. Combine Chicken with Sauce: Pour the thickened orange sauce over the crispy fried chicken in a large bowl or skillet. Toss gently to fully coat each piece with sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp and saucy texture contrast.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before coating to ensure crispiness and prevent sogginess.
  • Maintain medium-high heat while frying to prevent excess oil absorption.
  • Use fresh orange zest for enhanced aroma and flavor.
  • Simmer the sauce until thick enough to cling to the chicken, avoiding watery consistency.
  • Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chicken, Chinese orange chicken, homemade orange chicken, crispy chicken, orange sauce, quick Chinese recipes, gluten-free orange chicken

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/homemade-chinese-orange-chicken/