Classic Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that blends tender chicken with a vibrant, tangy orange sauce. This easy recipe takes you through the steps to create restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of crispy chicken and sweet citrus offers a delightful contrast that pleases the palate. Plus, it’s simple enough for novice cooks and satisfying enough for seasoned chefs. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal everyone will enjoy. In this article, I will guide you through all the essential steps and tips to make your own Classic Orange Chicken from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Orange Chicken

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

this recipe

Ingredients for Classic Orange Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• All-Purpose Flour: This will help create a crispy coating on the chicken when fried
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder for the flour coating
• Vegetable Oil: Used for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds brightness; avoid concentrate if possible
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps balance out the tanginess of the orange juice
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce while giving it a glossy finish

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Orange Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

Set up a breading station by placing beaten eggs in one bowl and all-purpose flour in another. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg first and then coat it thoroughly in flour.

Step 3: Heat Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic minced finely, and cornstarch mixed with water. Stir constantly until thickened.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add fried chicken back into the pan with sauce and toss until evenly coated. Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Crispy Texture: For extra crunch, double fry the chicken by cooking it twice in smaller batches

How to Serve Classic Orange Chicken

This Classic Orange Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to two days in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Suggestions for Classic Orange Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Classic Orange Chicken. Fresh chicken, vibrant oranges, and crisp vegetables enhance the dish’s flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen or pre-packaged ingredients, as they can diminish the overall taste. Freshness improves the dish significantly, making it more enjoyable. Additionally, fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavor profile, bringing out the best in your Classic Orange Chicken. Always check expiration dates on any sauces or condiments you plan to use to ensure quality.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooking the chicken is a common mistake when preparing Classic Orange Chicken. If you cook it too long, the chicken becomes dry and tough, losing its juicy tenderness. Aim for a golden brown color on the outside while ensuring the inside remains moist. Utilize a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). By carefully monitoring cooking times and temperatures, you can serve deliciously tender chicken that enhances your dish’s appeal.

Balance the Sauce

Achieving a balanced sauce is key to mastering Classic Orange Chicken. A sauce that is too sweet or too sour can overpower the dish. Use fresh orange juice for a bright flavor while balancing sweetness with soy sauce and vinegar. Taste and adjust as necessary throughout cooking; adding a pinch of salt or sugar can make a significant difference in flavor harmony. A well-balanced sauce not only complements your chicken but also elevates each bite, making it truly memorable.

Prepare Ahead of Time

Preparing ahead of time can save you stress and ensure smoother cooking when making Classic Orange Chicken. Marinate your chicken beforehand to deepen flavors; this step allows spices to infuse into the meat fully. You can also chop vegetables and prepare sauces in advance for quick assembly during cooking. This strategy helps streamline your process and ensures everything cooks evenly without rushing through any steps, leading to an exceptional final dish.

FAQs

What is Classic Orange Chicken?

Classic Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a tangy orange sauce. The dish typically combines flavors like sweet orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes. Often served over rice or with steamed vegetables, this dish has become a favorite at many Chinese restaurants across North America.

How do I make my Classic Orange Chicken crispy?

To achieve crispy Classic Orange Chicken, start by marinating your chicken pieces in cornstarch mixed with egg whites before frying. This coating helps create a crunchy exterior when cooked in hot oil. Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature—around 350°F (175°C)—to prevent sogginess while allowing for even cooking. Frying in small batches also helps maintain oil temperature so that each piece gets perfectly crispy.

Can I make Classic Orange Chicken healthier?

Yes! You can make Classic Orange Chicken healthier by opting for baked rather than fried chicken. Coat your chicken pieces lightly with cornstarch before baking them in a preheated oven until golden brown and crispy. Additionally, use less sugar in your sauce or substitute honey or agave syrup for natural sweetness. Incorporating more vegetables into your dish will also boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Classic Orange Chicken?

Classic Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. Additionally, stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers add color and crunch to your meal. For something lighter, consider serving it alongside a green salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette to balance out richness with refreshing tastes.

Conclusion

In summary, mastering Classic Orange Chicken requires attention to detail and balancing flavors effectively while avoiding common mistakes like overcooking or using stale ingredients. Utilizing fresh components will elevate this beloved dish significantly while preparing ahead ensures smooth execution during busy cooking times. Remember that achieving crispiness relies on careful frying techniques—temperature matters! Finally, consider pairing this delectable meal with complementary sides for an unforgettable dining experience that delights both family and friends alike.

Print

Classic Orange Chicken

---

• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Classic Orange Chicken is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a tangy, sweet orange sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the flavor of your favorite Chinese takeout right into your kitchen, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The vibrant orange sauce, made from fresh ingredients, elevates the dish and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this Classic Orange Chicken recipe will guide you to create a restaurant-quality meal that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 beaten eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water

---

Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set up a breading station: dip chicken pieces in beaten eggs, then coat with flour.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and cornstarch mixture; stir until thickened over medium heat.
6. Toss fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated; serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For extra crunch, consider double-frying the chicken by returning it to the oil for an additional minute after initial frying.- Customize the sauce by adding red pepper flakes for heat or sesame oil for depth of flavor.