Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the bright flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen, then this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken is just what you need! This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a family favorite that can turn any busy weeknight into something special. Imagine crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. And the best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes!

This dish is perfect for everything from casual family dinners to impressing friends at gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making this orange chicken again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: The delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Better Than Takeout: Skip the delivery and enjoy homemade orange chicken that tastes even better!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have in your pantry.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Quick & Easy Orange Chicken uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful meal!

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, about 4-5 medium-sized oranges)
• 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, if you prefer it spicy)

For Garnish

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have available at home.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Make it spicy: Add more red chili flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Add veggies: Toss in snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli during cooking to make it a heartier dish.
• Experiment with citrus: Use grapefruit or tangerine juice instead of orange for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients as listed above and mix well. Making this sauce first ensures all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully before they meet the chicken!

Step 2: Prepare 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 for an extra crispy finish!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Transfer the diced chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in your cornstarch and toss until each piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial because it gives that lovely crunch we all adore!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry your coated chicken in small batches so they cook evenly without overcrowding. Aim for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Once fried, remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack or paper-towel-lined plate. This helps drain off any excess oil so your chicken stays crispy rather than soggy.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

In the same pan over medium-high heat, add your prepared sauce and let it simmer until thickened—about one minute. This quick simmer intensifies those vibrant flavors.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Finally, add your crispy chicken back into the pan with the thickened sauce. Toss gently until every piece is beautifully coated. If you’d like a little flair, garnish with orange zest, sesame seeds, and green onions before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Making the perfect orange chicken is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you achieve that delightful taste!

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opting for skinless boneless thighs ensures tenderness and juiciness. This cut holds up well during cooking and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Coating: Coating the chicken in cornstarch not only creates a crispy exterior but also helps lock in moisture. This is key to achieving that delightful crunch with every bite.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil hot while frying is crucial. If it’s too cool, your chicken will absorb excess oil and become soggy. Maintain medium-high heat for that perfect golden brown.
• Fresh Orange Juice Matters: Using freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor profile of your dish significantly. The vibrant citrus notes are what make this recipe shine!
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the heat by adding or omitting red chili flakes based on your family’s preference. A touch of spice can really elevate the dish!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Orange Chicken

Serving your Quick & Easy Orange Chicken can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to make it truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle finely chopped green onions on top for a fresh, crunchy texture.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Adding toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty flavor and an appealing visual contrast against the bright orange sauce.
• Orange Zest: A sprinkle of grated orange zest not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the citrus essence of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly, making each bite satisfying.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed in garlic complements the sweetness of the orange sauce while adding nutrition.
• Fried Rice: For a heartier option, serve alongside vegetable fried rice. The savory flavors balance wonderfully with the sweet-and-sour chicken.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil provides a crisp contrast to the warm chicken and brightens up your plate.

Enjoy creating this delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can save time during your busy week by making this dish ahead of time and storing it for later. Here’s how to keep those delicious flavors fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Label and date the bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen orange chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish to reheat in the microwave, heating in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Quick & Easy Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

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

To adjust the spice level, you can simply omit the red chili flakes for a milder flavor or add more to increase heat. Customize it to suit your taste!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Quick & Easy Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs; however, keep an eye on cooking times as breast meat may cook faster.

What can I serve with Quick & Easy Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa and a side of sautéed vegetables, making a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Is there an alternative to cornstarch for coating the chicken?

Yes! You can use potato starch or tapioca starch as alternatives. Both will create a crispy coating that works wonderfully in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings together bright flavors and crispy textures while being quick enough for any weeknight dinner. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so don’t hesitate to add your own twist. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!