Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken is just the ticket! It’s crispy, tangy, and sweet—everything you desire in a hearty meal. I can hardly resist the bright flavor of the orange sauce that coats each piece of chicken. What makes this recipe extra special is how simple it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Not only is this dish a delightful alternative to takeout, but it also brings everyone together around the table. Imagine serving this vibrant plate of orange chicken at your next family gathering or casual dinner party—it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic days.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors.
• Better than takeout: Enjoy all the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish at home.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies.
• Simple ingredients: Wholesome pantry staples make this recipe easy to throw together anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (or potato starch)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice (freshly-squeezed, pulp removed)
• 2 tbsp white vinegar (or rice vinegar / apple cider vinegar)
• 6 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp regular soy sauce (or light soy sauce)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder (or grated ginger)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch / tapioca starch)
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)

For Garnishing (Optional)

• 1/2 green onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp orange zest (grated)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (toasted)

Variations

This Quick & Easy Orange Chicken is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast, tofu, or even shrimp for a different twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, increase the red chili flakes or add some sriracha to the sauce.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

How to Make Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients—orange juice, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger powder, and cornstarch. Mixing them well ensures that every bite bursts with flavor. This step sets the stage for that delicious coating we all crave!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dice your chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes. Remember not to pat them dry; keeping some moisture helps the cornstarch stick better. Transfer your chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl and toss them with cornstarch until they’re evenly coated. This creates that delightful crispy texture we love.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in small batches to ensure they get golden and crispy on both sides—about 6-8 minutes should do it! This frying step is crucial; it locks in moisture while creating that satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Once fried, remove your chicken from the pan and place it on a wire rack or paper-towel-lined plate. Draining excess oil prevents sogginess so that every piece remains wonderfully crispy.

Step 5: Thicken Your Sauce

In the same pan you used for frying (after removing excess oil), pour in your prepared sauce and let it simmer on medium-high heat until thickened—this usually takes about a minute. Simmering allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, add in your crispy chicken pieces and toss gently to coat thoroughly. Garnish with orange zest, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions if desired. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy every bite of your homemade Quick & Easy Orange Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Cooking can be a joyous adventure, and with these handy tips, your orange chicken will turn out even more delightful!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor profile of your dish, giving it that vibrant and zesty taste that bottled juices just can’t replicate.

• Don’t Skimp on the Cornstarch: Coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying not only helps achieve that crispy texture but also locks in moisture, ensuring your chicken remains juicy inside.

• Fry in Batches: To avoid overcrowding the pan, fry the chicken in small batches. This allows each piece to cook evenly and become perfectly golden without steaming.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you love a little kick, feel free to add more red chili flakes to your sauce. It’s a quick way to customize the dish according to your family’s preferences!

• Let It Rest After Frying: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate helps it stay crispy by letting excess oil drip away.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Once your kitchen fills with the delicious aroma of orange chicken, it’s time to think about how to present this delightful dish! The right garnishes and sides can elevate your meal from good to spectacular.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that looks beautiful against the vibrant sauce.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling these on top offers a nutty flavor and a nice texture contrast.
• Orange Zest: A little extra zest not only enhances the citrus flavor but also brightens up the presentation!

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up that luscious orange sauce, making every bite complete.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas tossed in soy sauce adds freshness and crunch alongside the richness of the chicken.
• Crispy Spring Rolls: These are delightful appetizers that complement your main dish beautifully – plus they’re fun to dip!
• Coconut Quinoa Salad: Lightly sweetened with coconut milk and mixed with fresh herbs, this unique side dish brings a tropical twist that pairs well with savory flavors.

Now you have everything you need to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy making and sharing this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Consider separating the chicken from the sauce to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label them with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• For best results, reheat until warmed through but avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Quick & Easy Orange Chicken without frying?

Absolutely! You can bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.

What is a good alternative to soy sauce in Quick & Easy Orange Chicken?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as great gluten-free alternatives that provide a similar flavor profile.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Quick & Easy Orange Chicken?

Feel free to add more or less red chili flakes based on your preference. For a milder version, simply omit them altogether!

Can I use other fruits for variations of this orange chicken recipe?

Yes! Pineapple juice can be an excellent substitute for orange juice while still providing that sweet and tangy flavor you love.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken a try! It’s not only simple to prepare but also brings joy and flavor to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy making it and savor every bite!