Main Courses > International Cuisine > Asian Mains > Chinese Orange Chicken

Classic Chinese Orange Chicken

Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce with this easy-to-follow recipe. A perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion. Prep time: 20 minutes, Cook time: 30 minutes.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup Orange juice
  • 2 tsp Orange zest
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 3 tbsp Honey
  • 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
  • 2 cups Vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Make the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the fried chicken to the orange sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to adhere to the chicken. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 10g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. Consider using less honey or a sugar substitute to reduce sugar content. Baking instead of frying the chicken can significantly lower the fat content.

← Classic British Fish Pie (AI Recipe) Classic Filipino Kare-Kare →

FAQ

  • Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

    Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the dredged chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Then, toss the baked chicken with the orange sauce.
  • Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

    Yes, chicken breast can be used. Be sure to cut the chicken breast into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • How can I make the sauce less sweet?

    Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce or use a sugar substitute. You can also add a bit more rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.
  • How long does Orange Chicken last?

    Orange Chicken can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it's stored in an airtight container to maintain its quality and prevent it from drying out. Reheat thoroughly before serving, either in a microwave or skillet, until it's heated through.