Homemade Express Orange Chicken

Watch the step-by-step cooking video at the bottom of the recipe!👇

If you love the sweet and tangy flavors of restaurant-style orange chicken but want a quick, homemade version, this Homemade Express Orange Chicken is the perfect solution. Juicy chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter and smothered in a zesty orange sauce make for a satisfying and flavorful meal. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this takeout favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan and toss until fully coated in the orange sauce.
2. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the orange chicken to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
3. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Express Orange Chicken

• Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain crispiness.
• Adjust sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your taste by adding more honey or orange juice.
• Use fresh orange juice for the brightest, most natural flavor.

This Homemade Express Orange Chicken recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings the taste of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen.