The Best Homemade Orange Chicken Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade orange chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how it brings the taste of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. It’s simpler than you think, with ingredients you probably already have. The crispy chicken paired with the tangy-sweet orange sauce is irresistible. Plus, you can customize it to your taste—make it spicier, sweeter, or just perfect for you.

Recipe

Intro

This homemade orange chicken recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions

1. Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dip each piece in beaten egg, then coat evenly with cornstarch.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Combine: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken.
• Adjust sweetness or spiciness by altering sugar or red pepper flakes.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Cuisine

Chinese-American

Serving

4 servings

Nutrition

This homemade orange chicken recipe provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

When I make homemade orange chicken, I like pairing it with steamed white rice or crispy stir-fried vegetables to balance the flavors. For a drink, I usually go for something invigorating like iced green tea or a light sparkling water with a hint of lime. These choices always make the meal feel complete and satisfying.

Side Dishes

Pairing homemade orange chicken with the right sides can really make the meal, and I’ve got some favorites that always hit the spot. Steamed white rice is a must—it soaks up the tangy sauce perfectly. For something fresh, I love a simple cucumber salad with a rice vinegar dressing. Stir-fried veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots add crunch and balance. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up some crispy spring rolls or potstickers. Even plain noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil work wonders. These sides keep the meal light, colorful, and full of flavor. You can’t go wrong!

Drink Pairings

Choosing the right drink to go with homemade orange chicken can elevate the whole meal, and I’ve got a few favorites that never disappoint. I love pairing it with a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Riesling, as their light sweetness complements the tangy glaze. If you’re more into non-alcoholic options, a cold glass of iced green tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon works wonders. For something heartier, a chilled lager or pale ale cuts through the richness perfectly. Honestly, it’s all about balance, so pick what makes you happy and enjoy every bite!