Easy Orange Chicken Recipe for a Flavorful Feast

Name: Easy Orange Chicken Recipe for a Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic; 1-inch piece fresh ginger; 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Published: March 10, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy orange chicken recipe makes dinner prep enjoyable and stress-free.
The balance of sweet and tangy flavors will amaze everyone at the table.
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice or noodles!

I remember how my friends raved about my first attempt at making this dish; they even went as far as asking for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they’re tender and soak up flavor beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact in your sauce.
Fresh Ginger: A small piece adds warmth and depth; don’t skimp on this zesty ingredient.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed makes all the difference in achieving that vibrant flavor.
Brown Sugar: This helps create the sticky goodness that’s so irresistible.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still maximizing flavor.
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle gives an authentic nutty essence to your dish.
Green Onions: Chopped for garnish; they add color and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

For the Sauce:

Cornstarch: Helps thicken your sauce; just mix it with water before adding it to avoid lumps.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who like a little heat, sprinkle them in!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepping your ingredients sets the stage for success; trust me!

Prep Your Chicken: Cut boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll cook—and who doesn’t want that?

Create Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and half of your orange juice. Add your chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step is crucial!

Sauté the Chicken: Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown on all sides—about 6-8 minutes should do it.

Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the remaining orange juice along with brown sugar and sesame oil. Stir well until everything melds together and smells heavenly.

Thicken It Up: Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this into your pan until the sauce thickens beautifully—like magic!

Finish with Garnish: Once your sauce has thickened to perfection, remove from heat. Serve hot over rice or noodles and garnish generously with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

And voila! You’ve created an enticing plate of orange chicken that will have everyone coming back for more! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you bask in the glory of your culinary triumph!

You Must Know

This orange chicken recipe is not just about taste; it’s a crowd-pleaser that turns any weeknight into a festive occasion.
The combination of sweet and savory flavors, paired with crispy chicken, will make everyone come back for seconds.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy orange chicken, start by marinating the chicken, then coat it in cornstarch before frying it until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist or add fresh ginger for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet to restore its crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh oranges for juicing; they’ll provide better flavor and aroma.
When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
Adjust the sweetness by adding honey or reducing sugar if desired.

Cooking this orange chicken always reminds me of family gatherings where my aunt would whip it up, and we’d all race to see who could snag the first piece before it even made it to the table!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs excellently with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time for convenience.

Is orange chicken spicy?

No, traditional orange chicken is not spicy; it’s more sweet and tangy than fiery hot.

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