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Orange Chicken Recipe

Orange Chicken Recipe

Bold citrus flavor meets glossy, sticky sauce in this sticky orange chicken recipe, giving you that irresistible takeout-style finish right from your own kitchen. It’s a smart choice when you want something fast, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Serving
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce
  • ¾ cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Season and coat the chicken thoroughly in egg and cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered for consistent crispiness.
  2. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and fully cooked, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
  3. Simmer the sauce ingredients together until slightly thickened and aromatic, allowing the flavors to blend properly.
  4. Add cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce reaches a smooth, glossy texture without lumps.
  5. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce gently until fully coated, ensuring the sauce clings evenly without breaking the crust.
  6. Garnish and serve immediately to preserve the balance between crispy coating and sticky glaze.

Notes

  • Keeping your oil at a steady temperature ensures the chicken fries evenly and doesn’t absorb excess oil.
  • Fresh orange juice and zest make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
  • Tossing the chicken right before serving keeps the texture from turning soggy too quickly.
  • Preparing all ingredients beforehand helps you move smoothly through the cooking process without overcooking any element.