Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3-4 oranges)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip the chicken pieces in the beaten egg, then coat them in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add the fresh orange juice, granulated sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine.
8. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
9. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is glossy and thickened to your liking.
10. Add the crispy chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the orange sauce.
11. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to absorb the flavors.
12. Serve the crispy orange chicken over a bed of rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables.
13. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for the Best Orange Chicken

To ensure your orange chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Use chicken thighs for juiciness, but chicken breast can also work if you prefer.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry; it helps to achieve that glossy sauce texture.
• Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. You can also use honey for a different flavor profile.
• For extra crunch, double-fry the chicken: fry it once, let it rest, and fry it again for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This crispy Asian orange chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a healthy alternative.
• Stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
• Egg fried rice for an additional flavor boost.
• Asian slaw or a simple salad for a refreshing crunch.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though they are rare!), store the orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or orange juice if needed to loosen the sauce.

This dish is also freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in a skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed and dried before coating and frying for the best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.

Is there a way to make the sauce spicier?

Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the coated chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Now that you have this easy and delicious recipe for Weeknight Crispy Asian Orange Chicken, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience any night of the week. This dish is sure to become a staple in your household, pleasing both kids and adults alike. Happy cooking!