Name: Irresistible Chinese Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/4 cup brown sugar (preferably dark); 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 2 green onions, sliced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Imagine biting into a piece of crispy, succulent chicken glazed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a flavor adventure that you simply won’t forget. sweet potato cornbread side Irresistible Chinese Orange Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that can transform any meal into a celebration.

I still remember the first time I made this dazzling dish for my family. The moment they tasted it, their eyes lit up as if I had just handed them golden tickets to Flavor Town. Now, every family gathering calls for this delightful recipe, and who can blame them? It’s perfect for weekday dinners or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. delicious gumbo option.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This irresistible Chinese Orange Chicken is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile is an exciting blend of sweet and savory, with vibrant colors that make every plate pop
Versatile enough for any occasion, it pairs beautifully with rice or noodles for a complete meal

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this orange chicken was at our last potluck! For more inspiration, check out this air fryer chicken recipes recipe.

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use around 3-4 breasts based on how many you’re feeding; they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best aromatic punch; fresh garlic elevates the entire dish.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping that umami flavor intact.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice captures the bright flavors; avoid bottled versions if possible.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and balances the tartness of the orange juice beautifully; use dark brown sugar for extra richness.
Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar enhances acidity and brightness; it’s key to achieving that authentic taste.
Sesame Oil: A dash of sesame oil brings warmth and nuttiness; it’s like a hug in liquid form!
Cornstarch: Use this to create a crispy coating on your chicken; it’s essential for texture.
Green Onions: These are not just garnish; they add freshness and color to your final dish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Make sure each piece is relatively uniform so they cook evenly.

Create the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch. complementary chicken dish Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until well-coated and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Heat Up Your Pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Crisp the Chicken**: Add your marinated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5 minutes total—and remove them from the pan.

Make the Sauce**: In the same skillet, combine orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until simmering and slightly thickened—about 3-4 minutes—scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the pan.

Bring It All Together**: Return your crispy chicken to the skillet and toss well with the sauce until fully coated. Cook for another minute or two until everything is heated through and glossy.

Now you have created an irresistible Chinese Orange Chicken that’s ready to dazzle everyone at your dinner table! Serve over steamed rice or noodles and enjoy every flavorful bite!

You Must Know

This irresistible Chinese orange chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory
Perfect for any occasion, it brings vibrant flavors to your table while being quick and easy to prepare
The enticing aroma will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

perfect dessert pairing.

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then fry until golden brown. Prepare the sauce while the chicken cooks for seamless timing and delicious results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in other proteins like tofu or shrimp, or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and crunch. Experiment with spices to elevate your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best texture; microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh oranges for zest and juice, ensuring a bright flavor that elevates your dish
Avoid overcooking the chicken; this keeps it juicy and tender
Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust sweetness or spice as needed for balance

Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where we’d dive into plates of this orange goodness together, laughing and enjoying every bite.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

What can I serve with orange chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Its sweet flavors are usually a hit with children of all ages.