Pin by Patricia Collins Dukes on Food & Drink that I love

Introduction

This bright orange chicken recipe is inspired by the comforting, sweet-tangy dishes you pin and return to time after time. It balances sticky citrus glaze with crisp-tender chicken for a weeknight dinner that feels special without fuss. If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy the way greens and herbs show up in other easy meals like savory spinach garlic meatballs, which pair wonderfully with a simple rice or noodle bed. The technique here is approachable, quick, and built to please picky eaters and adventurous cooks alike.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This orange chicken is a great choice because it comes together fast and delivers big flavor from simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Lightly crisped chicken pieces get coated in a glossy orange sauce that clings to every bite, making it perfect for scooping with rice or folding into noodle bowls. The method uses a quick cornstarch coating and high-heat searing so you get contrast between crisp exterior and juicy interior. It’s also family-friendly and easy to scale up for guests or meal prep. For a tropical variation, try a side with flavors similar to Brazilian coconut chicken for a comforting, fragrant spread.

Flavor and Texture

Bright citrus notes from fresh orange juice and a touch of vinegar cut through the sweet glaze, while soy and toasted sesame oil add savory depth. A little grated ginger and garlic lift the aroma and add warmth without overpowering the citrus. The chicken’s coating crisps quickly in a hot pan, then softens slightly as it soaks up sauce for a sticky finish. Green onions or toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a fresh, crunchy contrast that makes each forkful lively and satisfying.

Ingredients

– 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup orange juice, preferably fresh
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

1. Pat chicken pieces dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Toss chicken in a shallow bowl with cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Add chicken in a single layer and sear until golden and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a small bowl.
6. Stir cornstarch and water into the sauce mixture until smooth.
7. Pour sauce into the skillet with the chicken and bring to a simmer, stirring to coat.
8. Cook until sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes.
9. Stir in toasted sesame oil and remove from heat.
10. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use chicken thighs if you want a juicier result, or choose breasts for a leaner plate; both work well with this technique. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken so the coating crisps quickly instead of steaming. If your sauce thickens too much, thin it with a tablespoon or two of water until it reaches the shine and drape you prefer. Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the flavor more than bottled, but either will do in a pinch. For extra texture, toss in steamed broccoli or bell pepper pieces when you add the sauce for a colorful, balanced meal.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can prepare the sauce ahead and keep it refrigerated, then simply sear the chicken and finish with the warmed sauce when ready to serve. For meal prep, pack chicken over rice or noodles and add fresh green onions at serving time.

Final Thought

This orange chicken recipe is a little sunshine on a plate easy, bright, and reliably delicious. It works for hurried weeknights, casual dinner parties, or as a make-ahead favorite for lunches. The balance of crisp chicken and vibrant citrus glaze keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.

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