There’s something magical about the aroma of Spicy Orange Chicken wafting through the kitchen.
It takes me back to family dinners where laughter mingled with the sizzling sounds of cooking.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a quick solution for those busy weeknights or a delightful way to impress your loved ones.
With its crispy chicken coated in a zesty, spicy sauce, it’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to please.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Orange Chicken
This Spicy Orange Chicken is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s quick to whip up, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish.
The combination of crispy chicken and a tangy, spicy sauce creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters while still being exciting for adventurous palates.
Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Spicy Orange Chicken
Creating the perfect Spicy Orange Chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, making them ideal for frying. You can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your coating, giving the chicken that crispy texture. For a gluten-free version, try using almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the chicken’s natural flavors. Adjust to your taste.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These add depth and savory notes to the dish. Fresh garlic and onions can be used, but the powders are more convenient.
Eggs: Beaten eggs help the flour adhere to the chicken, creating a delicious crust.
Orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for a vibrant flavor, but store-bought works too. It’s the star of the sauce!
Soy sauce: This adds umami and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, use tamari.
Rice vinegar: It brings a tangy kick to the sauce. You can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Sriracha: This is where the spice comes in! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it a nice glossy finish.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it has a high smoke point. Canola or peanut oil are good alternatives.
Green onions and sesame seeds: These are for garnish, adding a pop of color and crunch. Feel free to skip if you’re in a hurry!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal!
How to Make Spicy Orange Chicken
Creating Spicy Orange Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
Start by grabbing a large bowl.
Combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Mix them well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
This coating is what gives your chicken that irresistible crunch!
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well beaten.
Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg, letting any excess drip off.
Then, coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture.
Make sure every piece is well covered; this is key for that crispy texture.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and cornstarch.
Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
This sauce is the heart of your Spicy Orange Chicken, bringing that zesty flavor to life!
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches.
Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
With all the chicken cooked, pour the orange sauce into the same skillet.
Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat each piece evenly.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your Spicy Orange Chicken is now ready to shine!
Serve it hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
This adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color.
Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches for even cooking.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before coating.
Adjust the sriracha to your heat preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can lose their crunch.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For mixing the flour and seasoning. A mixing bowl works too.
Medium bowl: For whisking the eggs and combining the sauce. Any bowl will do.
Skillet: A large skillet is ideal for frying. A wok can also be used.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil. A wire rack can be a great alternative.
Whisk: For mixing the sauce and eggs. A fork can work in a pinch.
Variations of Spicy Orange Chicken
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Orange Chicken with Pineapple: Toss in some pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the spice.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and almond flour for the coating to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Spicy Orange Tofu: Swap out chicken for firm tofu for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
Honey Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweeter profile that balances the heat.
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Orange Chicken
Steamed Rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair with a mix of colorful stir-fried veggies for added nutrition and crunch.
Cold Beer: Enjoy with a cold lager or pale ale to balance the spice.
Presentation: Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Spicy Orange Chicken
Can I make Spicy Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet for a quick meal.
Is Spicy Orange Chicken healthy?
This dish can be made healthier by baking the chicken instead of frying. You can also add more vegetables to the mix, making it a balanced meal. Just keep an eye on the sauce’s sugar content if you’re watching your intake.
What can I serve with Spicy Orange Chicken?
Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles. A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea complements the spice beautifully!
Can I adjust the spice level?
<pDefinitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce. You can always add more heat later if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, but be aware that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Spicy Orange Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The vibrant flavors and crispy texture bring joy to the table, making it a dish everyone will love.
Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe has a way of brightening your day.
It’s a delightful blend of spice and zest that transforms ordinary evenings into something special.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor every bite of this culinary adventure.
You’ll find that this dish quickly becomes a cherished favorite in your home!
A zesty and flavorful dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a spicy orange sauce, perfect for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat with the flour mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
In a medium bowl, mix the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and cornstarch until smooth.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in batches, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Once all the chicken is cooked, pour the orange sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Add some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet when adding the sauce for a colorful and nutritious addition.
