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Spicy Orange Chicken

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Spicy Orange Chicken is a bold, sweet-and-spicy dish featuring crispy chicken bites tossed in a tangy orange glaze with a kick of heat. It’s better than takeout and comes together in just over 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or an elevated homemade dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil (for frying or sautéing)
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1–2 teaspoons red pepper flakes or 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, orange slices

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Toss in cornstarch until coated.
  2. Dip coated chicken pieces in beaten eggs and set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  4. In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes or sriracha.
  5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  7. Add cooked chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or orange slices if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

  • Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes or sriracha.
  • Use baked or air-fried chicken for a lighter version.
  • Make the sauce ahead of time and store for up to 3 days.
  • Add stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra veggies.
  • For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/spicy-orange-chicken/