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Easy Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe

A close-up of crispy orange chicken pieces coated in a glossy sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

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Recreate your favorite takeout with this easy, crispy orange chicken recipe. It’s a family-friendly meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  2. Dip chicken pieces in the beaten egg, then dredge in the flour mixture until coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  4. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
  5. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and orange zest.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Return the fried chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the orange sauce.
  9. Serve immediately over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.
  • Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your preference.
  • This recipe is great for meal planning and can be made ahead.

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