Orange chicken has always been one of those comfort food favorites that I can never say no to. The combination of crispy fried chicken, sweet and tangy orange sauce, and just the right amount of garlic and ginger makes every bite irresistible.

I used to order it every time we got takeout, but after a while, I realized I could make it at home—and not only would it taste better, but it would also be fresher, healthier, and cheaper than ordering from a restaurant.

The first time I made it, I wasn’t sure if I could get the perfect crispy texture and thick, glossy sauce that makes the orange chicken so good. But after a little trial and error, I found a recipe that’s just like the restaurant version—if not better! The chicken turns out golden and crispy, and the homemade orange sauce has the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spice.

Now, this easy homemade orange chicken is one of my go-to meals when I’m craving something quick, crispy, and packed with flavor. If you love Panda Express orange chicken, this recipe is going to be your new favorite!

Servings	Total
4	30mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned how to make orange chicken because I wanted to cut back on takeout but still enjoy my favorite flavors at home. I started by looking at a few different recipes online, but most of them were either too complicated or didn’t taste quite right.

After some experimenting, I found the perfect way to get that crispy fried coating and a sauce that’s sticky, sweet, and full of orange flavor—just like the one from Chinese restaurants.

Now, every time I make it, I feel like I’m bringing the best part of takeout to my kitchen—but with fresher ingredients and no unnecessary additives.

Why Orange Chicken

There are so many reasons why orange chicken is one of my favorite meals:

Crispy & Flavorful – The chicken is fried to golden perfection and coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
Better Than Takeout – No need to rely on fast food when you can make it fresh at home.
Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can have it ready in 30 minutes.
Customizable – You can adjust the spice level, sweetness, and thickness of the sauce.
Perfect for Families – Everyone loves this dish, from kids to adults!

If you’re craving crispy, sweet, and citrusy Chinese-style chicken, this recipe is a must-try!

What Is Orange Chicken Made Of?

Orange chicken is made with crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. Here’s what you need:

For the Crispy Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Cornstarch & flour mixture – Helps create that crispy coating.
Eggs – For binding the coating to the chicken.
Oil for frying – Vegetable or canola oil works best.

For the Orange Sauce:

Orange juice & zest – Gives the sauce that signature citrus flavor.
Soy sauce & rice vinegar – Adds a deep, savory note.
Brown sugar & honey – Balances the tanginess of the orange.
Garlic & ginger – Essential for that classic Chinese takeout taste.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, but add a slight heat.
Cornstarch slurry – Helps thicken the sauce to coat the chicken perfectly.

What to Have with Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is delicious on its own, but here are some great sides to complete the meal:

Steamed White Rice – The best way to soak up that delicious sauce.
Fried Rice – A flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly.
Lo Mein or Chow Mein – A great noodle option.
Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy – Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls – For a full takeout-style experience.

If you have leftovers, the chicken is great in wraps, rice bowls, or even salads the next day!

Is Orange Chicken Healthy?

While orange chicken is crispy and indulgent, you can make it healthier by:

Air-frying instead of deep-frying – Cuts down on oil and calories.
Using less sugar in the sauce – Swap brown sugar for honey or reduce the amount.
Serving with brown rice or extra veggies – Adds more fiber and nutrients.
Using lean chicken breast instead of thighs – Lowers the fat content.

Even with a few adjustments, it still tastes delicious and satisfying!

Kitchen Equipment

To make homemade orange chicken, you’ll need:

Mixing bowls – For coating the chicken.
Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients.
Large skillet or wok – For frying the chicken and making the sauce.
Tongs or chopsticks – For handling the chicken.
Paper towels – To drain excess oil.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup cornstarch
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
1 tablespoon orange zest
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat with the cornstarch flour mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan).
Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Heat the sauce in a pan over medium heat.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Add the fried chicken to the pan with the orange sauce.
Toss well to coat every piece in the sauce.
Cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
Serve hot over rice or noodles!

Tips

Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
Double the sauce if you like extra for drizzling over rice.
Don’t overcook the chicken—it should be crispy outside and juicy inside.
For extra crispiness, fry the chicken twice!

FAQs

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and swap flour for rice flour.

Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This homemade orange chicken is crispy, flavorful, and better than takeout! Try it once, and you’ll never need to order it again.

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