orange chicken recipe

Orange Chicken Recipe

This orange chicken recipe is sweet, tangy, and sticky with crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy citrus sauce. It’s a homemade version of the popular takeout dish, perfect for serving with rice or noodles. Whether you want an easy orange chicken recipe, a healthy baked version, or a Panda Express style copycat, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite. Discover more flavorful recipes like Orange Chicken Recipe right here.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons oil (for frying or pan-searing)

For the orange sauce:

  • 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

Directions

  1. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper. Coat chicken pieces evenly in the mixture.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. In a separate saucepan, add orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, orange zest, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  6. Add the cooked chicken into the sauce and toss until fully coated.
  7. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavor.
  8. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4