Homemade Orange Chicken

Name: Homemade Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 2 eggs, beaten; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 tbsp vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, grated; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your cravings with this delicious Homemade Orange Chicken recipe. Featuring crispy chicken bites coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, this dish brings an irresistible burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare and perfect for serving with rice or veggies, it’s a family favorite that rivals your favorite takeout!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T07:41:47.260Z

This Homemade Orange Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it's perfect for family dinners.

A Perfect Comfort Food

Homemade Orange Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that appeals to all ages. The combination of crispy chicken and zesty orange sauce creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Homemade food always brings a warmth that takeout simply cannot match, making it a go-to recipe for cozy nights at home.

Additionally, this recipe offers flexibility in terms of ingredients. You can easily adjust the spices or substitute the chicken with your favorite protein, such as tofu or shrimp, without compromising on flavor. By making your own sauce, you control the sweetness and tanginess to cater to your preferences, ensuring that every bite is just right for you and your loved ones.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to serving Homemade Orange Chicken, the options are endless. A side of steamed jasmine rice complements the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly. The rice not only balances the richness of the chicken but also soaks up the delicious flavors. You might also consider serving it with fried rice or quinoa for an added twist, helping to round out the meal.

For those looking to add some greens to their plate, sautéed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers are excellent choices. They not only introduce vibrant colors to your dish, but they also bring additional nutrients, making your meal well-balanced and wholesome. Enjoy a fresh side salad for a refreshing contrast, especially during warmer months.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers of this delightful dish, storing them is easy! Place any remaining Orange Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce to maintain its crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken in a pan over medium heat and add the sauce to prevent it from drying out.

For those who prefer meal prepping, consider making a larger batch of the orange sauce and storing it in the freezer. This way, you can always have a quick, flavorful option on hand to whip up with fresh chicken — perfect for busy weeknights. Just allow the sauce to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using it to ensure the best texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 eggs, beaten
Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Combine all ingredients thoroughly before cooking.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat again with flour.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer, then add cornstarch mixture to thicken sauce.

Combine

Add fried chicken to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve hot over rice or with steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

Homemade Orange Chicken not only tastes great, but it also offers some nutritional benefits. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with the vitamin C-rich orange juice in the sauce, this dish helps support a healthy immune system. By preparing it at home, you can control the amount of sugar and sodium, making it a healthier option compared to takeout versions.

You can further enhance the nutritional profile by adding vegetables into the orange sauce or serving it with a side of mixed greens. This way, you increase the fiber content and add a variety of vitamins and minerals to your meal, making it not just delicious but nutritious.

Customizing Your Orange Chicken

One of the best aspects of making Homemade Orange Chicken is the ability to customize it to your liking! If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange sauce. For a more garlicky flavor, feel free to increase the amount of minced garlic in the recipe, which will not only enhance the taste but also add additional health benefits.

Another customization option is to experiment with different citrus flavors. If orange isn't your favorite, try substituting lemon or lime juice for a zesty twist. You might even combine various citrus juices for a unique flavor profile that elevates this dish to new heights. Your kitchen, your rules!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and soy sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.