Chinese Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that has earned a special place on takeout menus around the world. With its crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, citrusy sauce, this dish is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. While it’s often associated with Chinese-American cuisine, Orange Chicken is inspired by traditional Chinese flavors and techniques, making it a wonderful blend of cultural influences.
What makes Orange Chicken so irresistible is its bold, vibrant sauce. Fresh orange juice and zest create a bright citrus flavor, while soy sauce, ginger, and garlic add savory depth. A touch of sweetness balances out the tang, and a slight hint of heat from chili flakes or peppers gives the dish a well-rounded taste. The chicken is typically battered and fried for that signature crunch, making each bite a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
This dish has become a staple in American-Chinese restaurants, but its roots trace back to Hunan-style cooking, known for bold, spicy-sour flavors. Over time, chefs adapted the recipe to suit Western tastes, making it sweeter and more approachable. Today, it’s one of the most popular dishes at chains like Panda Express, where it has a devoted following.
Beyond takeout, Orange Chicken has gained popularity as a homemade dish. Home cooks enjoy recreating it for family dinners, often experimenting with lighter cooking methods like baking or air frying. It’s also a versatile dish, serve it over steamed rice, alongside vegetables, or even as part of a party spread.
Orange Chicken is a perfect example of how food travels and evolves. It takes inspiration from Chinese culinary traditions while becoming a uniquely beloved part of American food culture. Whether you’re picking it up from your favorite restaurant or trying your hand at making it from scratch, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and bold flavor in every bite.
The next time you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and deeply satisfying, Chinese Orange Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed preferred
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch and flour together. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In another pan, combine soy sauce, orange juice, orange zest, sugar, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer the sauce over medium heat until it slightly thickens.
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss until well-coated.
- Serve the orange chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition
I followed the instructions but it turned out too sweet for my taste. Maybe less sugar next time? Just my opinion.
This is the best orange chicken recipe ever! I made it for my family and they loved it. So juicy and flavorful! Will definitely make again.
Meh. I don’t really think this tastes like orange chicken from the restaurant. Think I’ll stick to takeout. 😒
Yum!!! I didn’t have rice vinegar so I used apple cider and it was still delish! 😍
Ok but I had to add way more soy sauce. I mean, come on, who only uses 1 tbsp for all that chicken?!
Totally agree! I always need more soy sauce too. It’s just too bland otherwise! 😅
Really? I thought 1 tbsp was fine. Maybe you just like it saltier? 🤔
Didn’t turn out like the restaurant’s… kinda disappointed.
Honestly, I think takeout is just better. Could be too much sugar in the sauce?
Maybe you overcooked the chicken? That can make a big difference. Try again!
I don’t really like ginger, can I leave it out? 🤔
So easy to make! I added some broccoli for an extra kick.
Easy peasy, lemon squeezy! 😂 Really good!
This was a hit at dinner! The kids loved it. Will make again!
Looks good, but I don’t get how it would taste so good with all that sugar. Isn’t that too much?
Glad to hear your kids loved it! It’s a favorite in our house too!
Can I substitute the chicken with tofu? Gonna try it!
Absolutely! Tofu will soak up the orange sauce and taste great! Good luck! 😊
I dunno, man. Tofu’s kinda bland compared to chicken. Might not be the same!
Best orange chicken recipe ever!! 🍊❤️ Yum!
I’m not a cook, but this seemed simple enough. I burnt the chicken though oops.
Just made this and it was delicious! Smelled amazing while cooking!
I made this too! It’s honestly the best chicken recipe I’ve tried! Super easy to follow.
Really? I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. The sugar was overwhelming.
Too sweet for my taste. Maybe use less sugar next time…