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Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe Easy Sweet Tangy Glaze at Home

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A quick and easy crispy orange chicken recipe featuring a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This dish offers a perfect balance of crunchy chicken and sticky orange sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour substitute)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil preferred)
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Zest of one orange
  • Optional garnishes: thinly sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In one bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
  3. Dip each chicken piece first into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place coated pieces on a tray.
  4. Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or wok to cover the chicken pieces halfway (about 2 inches deep). Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan for about 4-5 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
  6. While frying, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and orange zest in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes, until the glaze is glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
  8. Transfer all fried chicken to a large bowl, pour the hot orange glaze over, and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while crispy and saucy.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness. Pat chicken dry before coating for better adhesion. Stir glaze constantly to avoid lumps. Toss chicken in glaze just before serving to keep coating crispy. For gluten-free, substitute flour and soy sauce accordingly. Baking option available but less crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy orange chicken, orange chicken recipe, sweet and tangy chicken, easy dinner, fried chicken, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/crispy-orange-chicken-recipe-easy-sweet-tangy-glaze-at-home/