8 Best Orange Chicken Recipes: Delicious Takes on a Classic Favorite

I love exploring different recipes, and orange chicken stands out as a favorite. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. In this article, I will share the eight best orange chicken recipes that you can easily try at home.

From traditional methods to modern twists, there’s a recipe for everyone. Whether you prefer a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate dish for entertaining, these recipes bring the delicious flavors of orange chicken to your table. Each recipe offers a unique spin on this classic favorite, ensuring that you’ll find something to delight your taste buds.

1. Panda Express Orange Chicken

Panda Express Orange Chicken is a popular dish known for its crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This dish combines flavors of orange, soy sauce, and ginger, creating a distinctive taste.

Making Panda Express Orange Chicken at home is quite easy. With the right ingredients, I can prepare it in about 30 minutes. Here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture.
3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden brown. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. In another pan, prepare the sauce using 1 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of ginger. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
5. Combine the fried chicken with the sauce in the pan and stir to coat evenly.

This recipe captures the essence of Panda Express’s signature dish, making it a delicious option for any meal.

2. Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Slow cooker orange chicken is a tasty dish that combines chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It is made using a slow cooker, which allows for hands-free cooking while developing rich flavors.

I find this recipe easy to make. You only need a few ingredients, such as chicken, orange juice, soy sauce, and garlic. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, making it a great option for busy days.

Here are the simple steps to prepare slow cooker orange chicken:

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and sugar.
3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
4. Set the slow cooker on low for 4 to 6 hours.

Once the cooking time is up, the chicken will be tender, and the flavors will blend beautifully. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week.

3. Baked Orange Chicken

Baked orange chicken is a flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and a bit healthier than fried options. The sweet and tangy orange sauce contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

To make this dish, I use simple ingredients that I usually have at home. The recipe is approachable, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. I cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, I mix orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
4. I toss the chicken in the sauce, coating it well.
5. Then, I spread the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. I bake it for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
7. I like to serve it over rice and garnish it with green onions or sesame seeds.

This baked orange chicken is a hit at home. It’s simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for any weeknight meal.

4. Orange Chicken with Vegetables

Orange chicken with vegetables is a colorful and tasty dish. It combines crispy chicken pieces with fresh veggies and a sweet orange sauce. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick meal.

To prepare, I usually start by gathering the ingredients. You’ll need chicken breast, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and orange juice. The vegetables add flavor and nutrients.

Here are the basic steps:

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Stir-fry the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown.
3. Add chopped vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the orange juice and let it simmer for another 2 minutes.
5. Serve with rice or noodles.

This recipe is simple and can be ready in about 30 minutes. I enjoy making it because it’s quick and delicious. The mix of chicken and vegetables makes it a satisfying meal.

5. Honey Orange Chicken

Honey Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the bright flavor of orange. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

To make Honey Orange Chicken, I typically start with boneless chicken thighs or breasts. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of honey, orange juice, soy sauce, and garlic for added flavor.

Here are the simple steps I follow:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it is cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce: After cooking the chicken, pour the leftover marinade into the pan. Boil for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Serve: Slice the chicken and drizzle the sauce over it. Serve with rice or vegetables.

This simple recipe allows me to enjoy a sweet and savory meal in no time.

6. Glazed Orange Chicken with Sesame Seeds

Glazed Orange Chicken with Sesame Seeds is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a tangy orange sauce. The addition of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

This recipe is easy to make, even for beginners. You will need chicken breast, orange juice, soy sauce, and sesame seeds.

Here are the simple steps to prepare it:

1. Cut 1 lb of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of orange juice and 1/4 cup of soy sauce.
3. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for 30 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a pan and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds over the top before serving.

This dish pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. It’s flavorful and satisfying, making it a great choice for any meal.

7. Spicy Orange Chicken

Spicy Orange Chicken is a flavorful twist on the classic dish. It combines tender chicken pieces with a zesty, spicy orange sauce. The heat comes from chili flakes or sauce, which balances the sweetness of the orange.

Making this dish is quite easy. I typically use simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Here are the quick steps to prepare Spicy Orange Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut about 1 pound of boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden brown. It usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: In another bowl, mix juice from 2-3 oranges, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes.
5. Combine: Add the sauce to the cooked chicken and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavor.

I enjoy serving it with steamed rice or vegetables. This dish is quick, tasty, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

8. Mandarin Orange Chicken

Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular dish known for its sweet and tangy flavor. It features crispy chicken pieces coated in a shiny orange sauce that is both delicious and satisfying.

I find this recipe easy to make, even for those new to cooking. It usually requires basic ingredients that are easy to find.

Here are the main steps I follow:

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, then dip them in beaten eggs.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan and fry the coated chicken until golden brown.
4. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, and sugar. Cook until it thickens.
5. Combine: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and stir until fully coated.
6. Serve: Garnish with orange zest and sliced green onions.

This dish pairs well with rice and steamed vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy flavors that are both comforting and vibrant.

What Is the History of Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular dish that blends Chinese flavors with American culinary styles. Its journey involves various influences that shaped how it is known today.

What Are the Origins and Influences of Orange Chicken?

I find it interesting how orange chicken has roots in traditional Chinese cuisine, where dishes often combine sweet and savory elements. The use of citrus, like oranges, adds a distinctive flavor that enhances the dish.

The true origin of orange chicken is debated. Some believe it began in the Guangdong province, where similar sweet and sour chicken recipes were common. Chinese immigrants brought these ideas to America, mixing them with local ingredients and tastes.

In the 1980s, restaurants began to create their own versions. The unique combination of battered chicken, orange glaze, and fried to crispy perfection became popular with diners.

How Has Orange Chicken Evolved and Gained Popularity?

I’ve noticed how orange chicken gained significant traction in the United States during the late 20th century. It became a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants, partly due to its appealing flavor and texture.

Fast-food chains like Panda Express played a key role in its rise. They marketed orange chicken as an accessible, quick meal option. This helped solidify its place in American food culture.

Today, I see orange chicken on menus across the country. It has evolved further with variations that include spicy elements or different citrus fruits. Its widespread popularity shows how cuisine can blend and adapt over time.

What Are the Key Ingredients in Orange Chicken?

When making orange chicken, it’s crucial to focus on the right components that bring the dish to life. The balance of flavors and the quality of the chicken make a big difference in the final outcome.

What Are the Essential Components of Orange Chicken?

The essential ingredients for orange chicken typically include:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor.
• Orange Sauce: A mix of fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and sugar provides that signature sweet and tangy taste.
• Garlic and Ginger: These add depth and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Cornstarch: Used for coating the chicken before frying, it creates a crispy texture.
• Green Onions: Sliced as a garnish, they add a fresh crunch.

I like to focus on fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially for the sauce. Freshly squeezed orange juice can make a noticeable difference compared to bottled juice.

How Do You Choose the Right Chicken for Orange Chicken?

For best results, I always choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are juicier and more forgiving during cooking than chicken breasts.

I ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces. This promotes even cooking and results in a consistent texture.

If you prefer chicken breasts, that works too. Just be mindful they can dry out faster, so careful cooking is necessary.

Taking the time to pick quality chicken will elevate the dish significantly, making it more enjoyable for everyone.

What Are the Cooking Techniques for Orange Chicken?

When preparing orange chicken, using the right cooking techniques can make a big difference in flavor and texture. I focus on specific preparation tips and cooking methods to ensure the dish comes out delicious and satisfying.

What Are the Best Preparation Tips for Orange Chicken?

Proper preparation is key to a great orange chicken. First, I like to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for moisture and flavor. I usually cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor. I mix soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of orange juice for an hour before cooking. This step allows the meat to absorb the marinade deeply.

For a crispy exterior, I coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch or flour before frying. This creates a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the sweet and tangy sauce.

What Cooking Methods Work Best for Orange Chicken?

There are several effective cooking methods for making orange chicken. One popular method is frying. I heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.

Another method I use is baking. After coating the chicken, I place it on a baking sheet and bake it at 400°F for about 20 minutes. This method is healthier and still maintains a crispy texture.

Finally, I often finish the dish by tossing the cooked chicken in a homemade orange sauce. This sauce typically contains sugar, soy sauce, and orange zest, providing a rich flavor that pairs well with the chicken.