Go Back
Homemade Orange Chicken Recipe photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Orange Chicken Recipe

A quick, sweet-tangy orange chicken made with crispy chicken strips and a homemade orange sauce.
Prep Time18 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound frozen crispy chicken strips prepared according to package directions, cooled and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil divided (2 tbsp for sauce, 2 tsp for finishing)
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice from 1 to 2 large oranges
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce not lite
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water until smooth
  • Cooked rice optional, for serving
  • Serving suggestions optional

Instructions

  • Prepare the frozen crispy chicken strips according to package directions (air-fryer or oven). Let them cool until warm, then cut into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
  • In a medium pot over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil. When the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic, ginger paste, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds.
  • Add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar to the pot and stir to moisten the sugar. Add 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from 1–2 oranges) and stir until the sugar dissolves.
  • Stir in the white vinegar and soy sauce, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until completely smooth. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce and stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if desired (add more red pepper flakes for heat or a pinch of salt if needed).
  • Pour the desired amount of sauce over the cut-up chicken pieces in the large bowl. Drizzle the remaining 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil over the coated chicken and gently toss to combine.
  • Serve immediately over cooked rice if using, and garnish as desired.

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • Large Bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk or fork
  • cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Use air fryer or oven to cook frozen chicken per package instructions.
  • For stronger orange flavor, add more orange zest.
  • Mix cornstarch and water thoroughly to avoid lumps.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat.
  • Serve over rice if desired.