Description
This Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken recipe features tender pieces of chicken thigh or breast fried to golden perfection and coated in a tangy, sweet, and fragrant orange glaze. The combination of fresh orange juice, zest, soy sauce, and ginger creates a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements the crispy, crunchy chicken. Ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner served over steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Orange Glaze
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup orange zest
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will be used to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture when fried.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dredge the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, pressing lightly to cover each piece evenly. Set aside the coated chicken on a plate.
- Fry Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying them for 5-6 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare Orange Glaze Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, fresh orange juice, orange zest, sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir these ingredients together gently.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. This helps develop the sweet and tangy flavor of the glaze.
- Thicken Glaze: Stir the cornstarch-water mixture into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
- Coat Chicken with Glaze: Transfer the crispy fried chicken into a large bowl and pour the thickened orange glaze over it. Toss the chicken pieces carefully to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful glaze.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the glazed chicken for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve the crispy sweet glazed orange chicken hot over steamed rice or with your preferred sides for a delicious meal experience.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the egg and flour mixture before frying.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor impact in the glaze.
- Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
