Learn how to make crispy, golden Chinese Orange Chicken at home—better than takeout and done in under 30 minutes! Juicy chicken pieces are fried to perfection, then tossed in a sticky, sweet-and-tangy orange glaze made with fresh citrus, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve with rice or veggies for an irresistible meal the whole family will crave again and again.
⭐ Why This Recipe Wins
✔ Double-fried chicken for ultimate crunch
✔ Authentic orange zest-infused sauce (no artificial flavors)
✔ Ready in 30 minutes
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dishes or plates
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs
- Small bowl
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the chicken.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Dip the chicken in egg.
Place the beaten egg in a shallow dish. Dip each piece of the coated chicken into the egg, ensuring it’s fully covered.
Step 3: Fry the chicken.
Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet or wok to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Drain the chicken.
Remove the fried chicken with tongs and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the orange sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, orange zest, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 6: Cook the aromatics.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Step 7: Thicken the sauce.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour the orange juice mixture into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Step 8: Combine chicken and sauce.
Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the orange sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
Step 9: Serve.
Serve the Chinese Orange Chicken hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
💡 Chef’s Secrets
✔ No deep fryer? Air fry at 400°F for 12 mins (spray with oil)
✔ Extra orange flavor: Add ½ tsp orange extract
✔ Vegetarian version: Use cauliflower or tofu
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Over jasmine rice
- With steamed broccoli
- Pair with jasmine tea
🌡️ Storage
- Fridge: 2 days (sauce separate – reheat in oven)
- Freeze: 1 month (without sauce)
📊 Nutrition
Calories: 480 | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 45g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chinese Orange Chicken!
THANK YOU for Visiting Savory Life Recipes!
👉 If you loved this recipe, please share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram!
