Introduction

Sticky Orange Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The crispy, golden-brown chicken is tossed in a luscious orange sauce made with fresh orange juice, zest, and a mix of savory ingredients. The result is a dish that is both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, bringing the bold flavors of Chinese-American cuisine right into your kitchen.

The key to this dish lies in the sticky orange sauce, which coats the chicken in a glossy, mouthwatering glaze that is irresistible. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the crunch of the fried chicken combined with the juicy, citrusy punch of the orange sauce. Whether served over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, Sticky Orange Chicken offers a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

How to Make Sticky Orange Chicken

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Protein: 32g per serving

Able to serve: 4 people

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge the chicken pieces in the dry mixture, then dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are coated evenly.
2. Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once the sauce begins to thicken (about 5 minutes), reduce the heat to low.
4. Toss the chicken in the sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated and the sauce becomes sticky and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the Sticky Orange Chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Pro Tips

• For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken in the egg and flour mixture before frying.
• Orange zest adds a burst of citrus flavor to the sauce, so don’t skip it!
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or a few slices of fresh chili to the sauce for a hint of heat.

Conclusion

Sticky Orange Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the glossy orange sauce. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or both, this dish delivers a satisfying and delicious experience. Happy cooking!