2K Shares

This post may contain affiliate links (disclosure).

Craving the delicious taste of Chinese takeout? This homemade Chinese Orange Chicken recipe is here to satisfy your cravings! Made with juicy chicken pieces and a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make from scratch and tastes just like the restaurant version, but even better because you made it yourself!

Orange chicken is one of the most popular Chinese recipes. Many people order Chinese takeout just so they can eat some orange chicken! Good news is that you can make authentic tasting Chinese orange chicken recipe at home – no need to go to Panda Express to get your orange chicken fix :)

Why You’ll Love Chinese Orange Chicken

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet, sour, and spicy in the orange sauce creates a delicious flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. Each bite is packed with a balance of tangy citrus, savory soy, and a hint of heat.
Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No need to head to a specialty store—just follow the easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the same great taste as your favorite Chinese takeout without leaving your home. This recipe replicates the crispy chicken and flavorful sauce you love, making it a fun and satisfying cooking project.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this Chinese Orange Chicken and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, so you can savor this tasty dish for days to come.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat. Whether you like it mild or with a bit of a kick, you can easily tailor the spice to suit your taste.

This delicious orange chicken has such a complex and unique flavor combination! Sweet, sour, citrusy and a little spicy – all those flavors combined make an amazing finger-licking sauce! This chicken is seriously addictive – you just can’t stop eating it!

Ingredients For Chinese Orange Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Provides a lean and tender base for the dish; cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating.
Oil – Used for frying the chicken to a crispy golden brown; enhances flavor and texture.
Orange Juice – The star of the sauce, adding a sweet, tangy citrus flavor that’s essential for orange chicken.
White Vinegar – Adds a sour note that balances the sweetness of the sauce, enhancing its depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce – Provides a salty, umami flavor that enriches the sauce and pairs perfectly with the citrus.
Dark Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a rich caramel color to the sauce; balances out the vinegar’s tang.
Garlic Cloves – Fresh minced garlic adds a sharp, savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing its complexity.
Ginger Root – Grated ginger adds a warm, spicy undertone that complements the citrus notes in the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a bit of heat to the sauce, which can be adjusted according to your taste preference.
Cornstarch – Used twice in this recipe: to thicken the sauce and to create a crispy coating on the chicken.
Egg Whites – Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken, forming a crispy crust when fried.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Chinese Orange Chicken

Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients for the sauce and coating.
Large Bowl – Needed for marinating the chicken in the sauce to infuse flavor.
Saucepan – Used to cook and thicken the orange sauce to the perfect consistency.
Large Frying Pan – For frying the chicken pieces to a crispy golden brown.
Whisk – To mix the cornstarch and water, creating a slurry for thickening the sauce.
Tongs – Handy for turning the chicken pieces while frying, ensuring they cook evenly.

Follow this easy recipe and you’ll learn how to make orange chicken yourself right away. You’ll impress all your family and friends by making a delicious orange chicken at home from scratch!

How To Make Chinese Orange Chicken

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients (except the cornstarch) in a bowl until well combined.
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour 1 cup of the prepared sauce over them. Toss to coat and let the chicken marinate for about 20 minutes at room temperature.
While the chicken marinates, pour the remaining sauce into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the boiling sauce, allowing it to thicken for about 2 minutes. Set aside.
Heat a large frying pan with enough oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat.
Coat the marinated chicken pieces in batches: Dip them in whisked egg whites, then roll them in cornstarch until fully covered.
Fry the coated chicken in the hot pan for about 3 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is golden and crispy. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed.
Once all the chicken is fried, reheat the sauce if necessary. Pour the warm orange sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat.
Serve immediately over rice or your favorite side dish.

This yummy orange chicken tastes amazing served over rice. Just use your rice cooker to make rice with no effort whatsoever – when you finish making the chicken, the rice will be ready too!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chinese Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious orange sauce.
Add a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like lettuce, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Garnish with thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor and a pop of color.
Pair with egg rolls or dumplings to create a full Chinese-inspired dinner at home.
For a lighter option, serve the orange chicken over a bed of fresh kale or a fresh Asian salad.

Tips For Success

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 20 minutes to infuse it with maximum flavor. This step is crucial for tender, juicy chicken that tastes delicious in every bite.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger will give your sauce a more vibrant and authentic taste compared to pre-packaged ingredients. The freshness of these components makes a big difference in flavor.
Achieving Crispy Chicken: To ensure the chicken gets a perfectly crispy coating, don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry the chicken in small batches, allowing enough space for each piece to cook evenly and achieve a golden-brown crust.
Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer your orange chicken spicier, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. Conversely, if you want a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
Properly Thicken the Sauce: When thickening the sauce with cornstarch, ensure you create a smooth slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the hot sauce. This prevents clumping and results in a smooth, glossy sauce.
Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, reheat the chicken in a hot oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to maintain its crispy texture. The microwave can make the coating soggy, while the oven or air fryer helps retain crispiness.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the chicken as soon as it’s coated in the sauce. This keeps the coating crispy while allowing the sauce to adhere perfectly to the chicken.
Make Extra Sauce: Consider doubling the sauce recipe if you like your orange chicken extra saucy or plan to serve it with rice. This way, you’ll have plenty of sauce to drizzle over the chicken and rice.
Experiment with Garnishes: Top your dish with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added flavor and presentation appeal. These small touches elevate the dish to restaurant quality.

Variations And Substitutions

Make It Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure that the cornstarch and any other ingredients you use are also certified gluten-free.
Use Chicken Thighs Instead: If you prefer a juicier cut of meat, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are slightly fattier, which can add a richer flavor to the dish.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower. Coat the tofu or cauliflower pieces in the egg whites and cornstarch, and fry them until crispy. The orange sauce pairs wonderfully with these vegetarian alternatives.
Lower Sugar Version: To reduce the sugar content, you can substitute the dark brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Adjust the amount to taste, keeping in mind that different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
Different Heat Levels: Customize the spice level to your preference. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For an extra spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Add Citrus Zest: Enhance the citrus flavor by adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the sauce. The zest adds a bright, fragrant aroma that complements the orange juice.
Keto-Friendly Option: Make this dish keto-friendly by using a sugar substitute suitable for cooking, such as erythritol or monk fruit, in place of the brown sugar. Also, consider using a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of cornstarch.
Add Extra Veggies: To boost the nutritional value, add extra vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the dish. Stir-fry the veggies briefly before adding the chicken to ensure they stay crisp and colorful.
Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing this for a gathering or meal prep, make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also coat and fry the chicken ahead of time, then reheat it in the oven just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Chinese Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before transferring it to the container to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Instructions: If you want to freeze this dish, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. It’s best to store the sauce separately from the chicken to maintain its texture when reheating.
Reheating in the Oven: To reheat and maintain the chicken’s crispiness, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheat the sauce separately in a small saucepan over low heat until hot, then pour it over the chicken just before serving.
Reheating in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until crispy and heated through. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop and pour over the chicken before serving.
Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken pieces on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Note that the microwave may make the coating slightly less crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Chinese Orange Chicken recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken ahead of time. Store the sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to retain its crispiness, and warm the sauce on the stovetop before combining them.

What can I use as a substitute for cornstarch?

You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or potato starch in the same amount for a similar thickening effect. These alternatives will help achieve the same crispy coating for the chicken and the desired sauce consistency.

Can I make this recipe without frying the chicken?

Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Coat the chicken as directed, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

How do I adjust the spice level in the orange sauce?

You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder sauce, use less or omit the red pepper flakes entirely. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, store the sauce separately from the chicken.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a different take on this recipe. Follow the same coating and cooking steps for the new protein to achieve similar delicious results.

What side dishes go well with Chinese Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed white or jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, or a fresh Asian salad. Homemade egg rolls or dumplings also make great side dishes to complete your meal.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

Crispy Honey Butter Chicken: This delicious honey butter chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside with a sweet, buttery glaze that melts in your mouth.

Japanese Style Hibachi Grilled Chicken: Experience the flavors of Japanese hibachi at home with this easy grilled chicken recipe, complete with a savory, smoky marinade.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken: Make tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce with this quick and healthy air fryer recipe.

Bite-Sized Air Fryer Chicken Pieces: Enjoy these crispy, bite-sized chicken pieces made in the air fryer for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer.

Trader Joe’s Orange Chicken in the Air Fryer: Learn how to cook Trader Joe’s famous orange chicken to perfection in the air fryer for a quick and easy meal.

Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken: Make perfectly crispy frozen popcorn chicken in the air fryer with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings: These spicy buffalo wings are air-fried to a crispy perfection and tossed in a zesty hot sauce for the ultimate game day snack.

Click Here To Pin This Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe

5 from 3 votes