orange chicken recipe

Orange Chicken Recipe

A crispy, citrusy, sweet–savory orange chicken recipe that tastes just like your favorite takeout but fresher, faster, and easier. This homemade version delivers crunchy chicken bites coated in a sticky orange glaze made from real orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving that Panda-Express style comfort at home without the heaviness.

orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade
orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

For the Orange Sauce

  • ¾ cup orange juice (fresh or no-pulp recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped scallions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Extra orange zest

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Toss thoroughly with cornstarch until every piece is coated.
  2. Make the Sauce
    In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cook the Chicken
    Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
    Remove to a plate, add remaining oil, and repeat with the second batch.
  4. Combine With Sauce
    Turn off heat. Pour the orange sauce into the skillet it will bubble and thicken instantly. Scrape up any browned bits for extra flavor.
  5. Coat the Chicken
    Return all cooked chicken to the skillet and toss until fully glazed and glossy.
  6. Serve
    Spoon over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
orange zest orange chicken recipe easy
orange zest orange chicken recipe easy

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Best Served With: Jasmine rice, fried rice, lo mein noodles, stir-fried veggies
  • Storage:
    • Refrigerate 3–4 days in an air-tight container
    • Freeze up to 3 months (crispiness will reduce)
  • Reheating:
    Warm on the stovetop over low heat for best texture