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Detailed shot of cooked orange chicken pieces surrounded by bright orange sauce and garnishes.

Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken

A flavorful and crispy orange chicken dish with a tangy sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup rice vinegar
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water (slurry)

Garnishes

  • to taste sliced green onions
  • to taste sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dip in eggs and coat with cornstarch.
  • Heat oil and fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes each.
  • Combine orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; boil and thicken with slurry.
  • Add fried chicken to sauce, toss to coat, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Keyword orange chicken