Description
This easy orange chicken recipe delivers crispy, tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet orange sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect homemade alternative to takeout with fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Chopped scallions, optional, for serving
Sauce
- 3/4 cup orange juice (preferably fresh or high quality bottled)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Zest from 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and place them in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss well until each piece is evenly coated.
- Mix the sauce: In another bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and well combined.
- Heat the oil: Place 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to become hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook the chicken in batches: Add half of the chicken pieces to the hot skillet, making sure they are not crowded. Cook for about 4 minutes without stirring to get a good sear, then flip each piece and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet for the second batch and repeat the process.
- Make the sauce in the skillet: Turn off the heat and pour the prepared sauce into the hot skillet. The residual heat will thicken the sauce in about one minute. Stir and scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits, then add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss the chicken to evenly coat it with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the orange chicken immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best bright, citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning and crispiness.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Keywords: Orange chicken, easy orange chicken, crispy chicken recipe, homemade orange chicken, chicken dinner, quick chicken recipe