Easy Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe

Satisfy your cravings for takeout with this Easy Crispy Orange Chicken recipe! Perfectly crispy chicken pieces are tossed in a zesty orange sauce that’s both sweet and tangy, making this dish a delightful addition to your dinner table. Quick to prepare and sure to impress, it's an irresistible favorite for family meals or gatherings.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-11-24T04:32:20.613Z

This Easy Crispy Orange Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, bringing the taste of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. With a crispy exterior and a succulent center, each bite is complemented by the bright flavors of tangy orange.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation
Crispy and flavorful chicken
Perfect for family dinners or gatherings
Zesty orange sauce that's both sweet and tangy

      

The Joy of Homemade Orange Chicken

When you think of orange chicken, that crispy texture and vibrant flavor might remind you of your favorite takeout spot. However, making it homemade means you can expertly control the ingredients and elevate the quality. This Easy Crispy Orange Chicken recipe brings that beloved dish right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of dining out. Plus, creating a homemade version can be a fun cooking experience for the entire family.

Using fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll find that this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly rewarding. Whether you're trying to impress your guests or treat your loved ones to something special, this recipe fits the bill. The crispy chicken pairs perfectly with the bright and tangy sauce, making every bite a delightful burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken

Achieving that perfect crispy coating is all about technique. Start by drying the chicken pieces thoroughly before seasoning them. This helps the cornstarch stick better, ensuring a crunchier texture once fried. Using a good quality oil with a high smoke point is also crucial for frying; oils like peanut or vegetable oil work great for achieving that ideal golden-brown finish.

Once you’ve fried the chicken, let it rest briefly on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will enhance the crispiness and ensure a flavorful bite without being greasy. Remember, frying in batches rather than overcrowding the pan is key; this keeps the oil temperature consistent and promotes even cooking for all the pieces.

Making the Sauce Your Own

The zesty orange sauce is the star of this dish, providing a balance of sweetness and tang that complements the crispy chicken beautifully. While the recipe includes a mix of orange juice, honey, and soy sauce, feel free to get creative! Adding a splash of sesame oil can deepen the flavor, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a mild heat that offsets the sweetness.

To achieve the perfect consistency, remember to stir the cornstarch and water mixture well before adding it to the sauce. This will ensure a smooth and even thickening agent. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking—don't hesitate to add more honey or orange juice to taste. Tailoring the sauce allows you to create a version that suits your preferences perfectly.

Ingredients

Chicken and Coating

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups cornstarch
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Orange Sauce

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

These ingredients will help you create the perfect crispy orange chicken at home.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg and then coat them in cornstarch.

Fry the Chicken

In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat and fry the coated chicken until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.

Thicken the Sauce

Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce and stir until thickened. Remove from heat.

Combine and Serve

Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade crispy orange chicken with rice or vegetables!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Easy Crispy Orange Chicken, storing them correctly can help you enjoy them later. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to store them separately if possible to maintain the chicken's crispiness, as the sauce can make it soggy overnight.

When reheating, consider using an oven or air fryer to bring back some of the original crispness. Microwaving can quickly reheat, but it may not give you the same delightful crunch. Aim to enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your homemade orange chicken with simple sides to create a balanced meal. Steamed rice, either white or brown, serves as a perfect base to soak up the delicious orange sauce. You might also consider serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for added nutrition and color on your plate.

If you're looking for a refreshing element, a simple cucumber salad or sesame salad can provide a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. These fresh sides will not only complement the orange chicken but also help elevate the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and drained before preparing.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce.