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Sticky Orange Chicken Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by on June 21, 2025

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Craving something sweet and savory? My Sticky Orange Chicken recipe is the answer! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up a meal that shines. I’ll guide you through making crispy chicken, a zesty orange sauce, and tips to avoid common mistakes. Whether you want the classic version, a spicy twist, or even a healthy alternative, this recipe covers it all. Let’s get cooking!

To make delicious sticky orange chicken, you need simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1/4 cup honey - 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor) - Zest of 1 orange - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch fresh ginger, minced - 1 teaspoon sesame oil These ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor that makes this dish stand out. Adding garnishes makes your sticky orange chicken look great. You can use: - 1 tablespoon sliced green onions - Sesame seeds These garnishes add color and texture to your dish. They make it more appealing and tasty. You might not have every ingredient at home. Here are some easy swaps: - Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. - Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan choice. - If you lack fresh ginger, try using ground ginger. Just use less! - For a gluten-free option, choose tamari instead of soy sauce. These substitutions keep the flavor while meeting different needs. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, start with boneless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, add the chicken and toss it with cornstarch. Make sure every piece is well coated. This step is key for a crispy result. Coating the chicken helps it fry better and adds texture. Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the chicken crispy. Fry each piece for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Look for a golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels. For the sauce, grab a separate bowl. Whisk together honey, orange juice, and orange zest. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Mix well until smooth. This sauce gives the dish its sticky and sweet flavor. Now, pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet used for frying. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried chicken and stir gently. Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes to let the sauce thicken. Finish by drizzling sesame oil over the chicken for extra flavor. To get crispy orange chicken, start with cornstarch. Coat each chicken piece well. This helps form a crunchy crust. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Fry the chicken in small batches. This way, it cooks evenly and gets crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken rest on paper towels to drain excess oil. This keeps it crispy. To boost the sauce flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh orange juice gives the best taste. Don’t skip the orange zest; it adds great aroma. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. This makes the sauce even more lively. One common mistake is not coating the chicken well. Make sure every piece is covered in cornstarch. Another mistake is cooking at too low a heat. This can lead to soggy chicken. Always heat the oil before adding the chicken. Lastly, avoid stirring too much while frying. Let the chicken brown nicely before flipping. This ensures a great texture and flavor. Pro Tips Coat the Chicken Well: Ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in cornstarch for a perfect crispy texture when fried. Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat when frying to achieve a golden brown crust without burning the chicken. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest elevate the flavor of the sauce, making it more aromatic and delicious. Let the Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for a few minutes to enhance the sticky texture and flavor. {{image_2}} To make a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix this into the sauce when you whisk together the honey, orange juice, and other ingredients. Taste and adjust as needed. The heat will balance well with the sweetness of the honey and orange. This twist adds a fun kick to your dish. You can make a baked version for a lighter meal. Instead of frying the chicken, coat it in cornstarch. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Then, toss the baked chicken in the sauce just like before. This keeps the flavor while reducing the oil. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and press to remove excess moisture. Coat the tofu in cornstarch and fry or bake it until crispy. Use the same delicious orange sauce to coat the tofu. This option gives you all the flavor without meat, making it perfect for vegetarians. After cooking your sticky orange chicken, let it cool first. Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the chicken in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any sauce to keep the chicken crispy. If you mix it with the sauce, the chicken will get soggy. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a touch of oil to keep it moist. Heat the chicken for about five minutes. Stir it often until it's warm all the way through. You can also microwave it, but the chicken may not stay crispy. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts. You can freeze sticky orange chicken for up to three months. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Just remember, freezing may change its texture slightly. To reduce the sweetness, cut back on honey. Use just 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can also add more soy sauce to balance the flavors. Try adding a splash of extra vinegar for some tang. This will help create a more savory dish without losing its flavor. Yes, you can prepare parts of the recipe in advance. Cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and mix it with the sauce. This way, the chicken stays crispy and the sauce remains fresh. Sticky Orange Chicken tastes great with various sides. Here are some ideas: - Steamed white rice or jasmine rice - Fried rice with veggies - Stir-fried broccoli or green beans - Asian-style slaw for a crunchy bite These sides complement the chicken and enhance your meal experience! You learned how to make sticky orange chicken from scratch. We covered key ingredients and helpful tips for perfect results. You also discovered tasty variations and proper storage methods. Keeping these steps in mind will help you cook a meal that impresses everyone. Use this recipe to master sticky orange chicken and enjoy cooking! The best food brings joy, so get started today.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavor: The combination of honey and orange juice creates a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
  2. Crispy Texture: Coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying ensures a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the sticky sauce.
  3. Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or spice level by modifying the amount of honey or adding chili flakes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Sticky Orange Chicken

To make delicious sticky orange chicken, you need simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

– 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup cornstarch

– 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

– Zest of 1 orange

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 inch fresh ginger, minced

– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

These ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor that makes this dish stand out.

Optional Garnishes

Adding garnishes makes your sticky orange chicken look great. You can use:

– 1 tablespoon sliced green onions

– Sesame seeds

These garnishes add color and texture to your dish. They make it more appealing and tasty.

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

You might not have every ingredient at home. Here are some easy swaps:

– Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.

– Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan choice.

– If you lack fresh ginger, try using ground ginger. Just use less!

– For a gluten-free option, choose tamari instead of soy sauce.

These substitutions keep the flavor while meeting different needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Chicken

First, start with boneless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, add the chicken and toss it with cornstarch. Make sure every piece is well coated. This step is key for a crispy result. Coating the chicken helps it fry better and adds texture.

Frying Techniques for Crispy Chicken

Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the chicken crispy. Fry each piece for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Look for a golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels.

How to Make the Orange Sauce

For the sauce, grab a separate bowl. Whisk together honey, orange juice, and orange zest. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Mix well until smooth. This sauce gives the dish its sticky and sweet flavor. Now, pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet used for frying. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried chicken and stir gently. Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes to let the sauce thicken. Finish by drizzling sesame oil over the chicken for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture

To get crispy orange chicken, start with cornstarch. Coat each chicken piece well. This helps form a crunchy crust. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Fry the chicken in small batches. This way, it cooks evenly and gets crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken rest on paper towels to drain excess oil. This keeps it crispy.

Flavor Enhancements for the Sauce

To boost the sauce flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh orange juice gives the best taste. Don’t skip the orange zest; it adds great aroma. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. This makes the sauce even more lively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not coating the chicken well. Make sure every piece is covered in cornstarch. Another mistake is cooking at too low a heat. This can lead to soggy chicken. Always heat the oil before adding the chicken. Lastly, avoid stirring too much while frying. Let the chicken brown nicely before flipping. This ensures a great texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

  1. Coat the Chicken Well: Ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in cornstarch for a perfect crispy texture when fried.
  2. Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat when frying to achieve a golden brown crust without burning the chicken.
  3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest elevate the flavor of the sauce, making it more aromatic and delicious.
  4. Let the Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for a few minutes to enhance the sticky texture and flavor.

Variations

Spicy Sticky Orange Chicken Recipe

To make a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix this into the sauce when you whisk together the honey, orange juice, and other ingredients. Taste and adjust as needed. The heat will balance well with the sweetness of the honey and orange. This twist adds a fun kick to your dish.

Healthier Baked Version

You can make a baked version for a lighter meal. Instead of frying the chicken, coat it in cornstarch. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Then, toss the baked chicken in the sauce just like before. This keeps the flavor while reducing the oil.

Vegetarian Alternatives

If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and press to remove excess moisture. Coat the tofu in cornstarch and fry or bake it until crispy. Use the same delicious orange sauce to coat the tofu. This option gives you all the flavor without meat, making it perfect for vegetarians.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Leftovers

After cooking your sticky orange chicken, let it cool first. Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the chicken in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any sauce to keep the chicken crispy. If you mix it with the sauce, the chicken will get soggy.

How to Reheat Sticky Orange Chicken

To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a touch of oil to keep it moist. Heat the chicken for about five minutes. Stir it often until it’s warm all the way through. You can also microwave it, but the chicken may not stay crispy. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts.

Freezing Options and Tips

You can freeze sticky orange chicken for up to three months. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Just remember, freezing may change its texture slightly.

FAQs

How do I make Sticky Orange Chicken less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, cut back on honey. Use just 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can also add more soy sauce to balance the flavors. Try adding a splash of extra vinegar for some tang. This will help create a more savory dish without losing its flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the recipe in advance. Cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and mix it with the sauce. This way, the chicken stays crispy and the sauce remains fresh.

What sides pair well with Sticky Orange Chicken?

Sticky Orange Chicken tastes great with various sides. Here are some ideas:

– Steamed white rice or jasmine rice

– Fried rice with veggies

– Stir-fried broccoli or green beans

– Asian-style slaw for a crunchy bite

These sides complement the chicken and enhance your meal experience!

You learned how to make sticky orange chicken from scratch. We covered key ingredients and helpful tips for perfect results. You also discovered tasty variations and proper storage methods. Keeping these steps in mind will help you cook a meal that impresses everyone. Use this recipe to master sticky orange chicken and enjoy cooking! The best food brings joy, so get started toda

To make delicious sticky orange chicken, you need simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1/4 cup honey - 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor) - Zest of 1 orange - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch fresh ginger, minced - 1 teaspoon sesame oil These ingredients create a sweet and tangy flavor that makes this dish stand out. Adding garnishes makes your sticky orange chicken look great. You can use: - 1 tablespoon sliced green onions - Sesame seeds These garnishes add color and texture to your dish. They make it more appealing and tasty. You might not have every ingredient at home. Here are some easy swaps: - Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. - Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan choice. - If you lack fresh ginger, try using ground ginger. Just use less! - For a gluten-free option, choose tamari instead of soy sauce. These substitutions keep the flavor while meeting different needs. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, start with boneless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, add the chicken and toss it with cornstarch. Make sure every piece is well coated. This step is key for a crispy result. Coating the chicken helps it fry better and adds texture. Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the chicken in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the chicken crispy. Fry each piece for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Look for a golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels. For the sauce, grab a separate bowl. Whisk together honey, orange juice, and orange zest. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Mix well until smooth. This sauce gives the dish its sticky and sweet flavor. Now, pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet used for frying. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried chicken and stir gently. Cook for 2 to 3 more minutes to let the sauce thicken. Finish by drizzling sesame oil over the chicken for extra flavor. To get crispy orange chicken, start with cornstarch. Coat each chicken piece well. This helps form a crunchy crust. Heat the oil until it shimmers. Fry the chicken in small batches. This way, it cooks evenly and gets crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the chicken rest on paper towels to drain excess oil. This keeps it crispy. To boost the sauce flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh orange juice gives the best taste. Don’t skip the orange zest; it adds great aroma. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. This makes the sauce even more lively. One common mistake is not coating the chicken well. Make sure every piece is covered in cornstarch. Another mistake is cooking at too low a heat. This can lead to soggy chicken. Always heat the oil before adding the chicken. Lastly, avoid stirring too much while frying. Let the chicken brown nicely before flipping. This ensures a great texture and flavor. Pro Tips Coat the Chicken Well: Ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in cornstarch for a perfect crispy texture when fried. Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat when frying to achieve a golden brown crust without burning the chicken. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest elevate the flavor of the sauce, making it more aromatic and delicious. Let the Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for a few minutes to enhance the sticky texture and flavor. {{image_2}} To make a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix this into the sauce when you whisk together the honey, orange juice, and other ingredients. Taste and adjust as needed. The heat will balance well with the sweetness of the honey and orange. This twist adds a fun kick to your dish. You can make a baked version for a lighter meal. Instead of frying the chicken, coat it in cornstarch. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Then, toss the baked chicken in the sauce just like before. This keeps the flavor while reducing the oil. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and press to remove excess moisture. Coat the tofu in cornstarch and fry or bake it until crispy. Use the same delicious orange sauce to coat the tofu. This option gives you all the flavor without meat, making it perfect for vegetarians. After cooking your sticky orange chicken, let it cool first. Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the chicken in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any sauce to keep the chicken crispy. If you mix it with the sauce, the chicken will get soggy. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a touch of oil to keep it moist. Heat the chicken for about five minutes. Stir it often until it's warm all the way through. You can also microwave it, but the chicken may not stay crispy. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts. You can freeze sticky orange chicken for up to three months. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Just remember, freezing may change its texture slightly. To reduce the sweetness, cut back on honey. Use just 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup. You can also add more soy sauce to balance the flavors. Try adding a splash of extra vinegar for some tang. This will help create a more savory dish without losing its flavor. Yes, you can prepare parts of the recipe in advance. Cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and mix it with the sauce. This way, the chicken stays crispy and the sauce remains fresh. Sticky Orange Chicken tastes great with various sides. Here are some ideas: - Steamed white rice or jasmine rice - Fried rice with veggies - Stir-fried broccoli or green beans - Asian-style slaw for a crunchy bite These sides complement the chicken and enhance your meal experience! You learned how to make sticky orange chicken from scratch. We covered key ingredients and helpful tips for perfect results. You also discovered tasty variations and proper storage methods. Keeping these steps in mind will help you cook a meal that impresses everyone. Use this recipe to master sticky orange chicken and enjoy cooking! The best food brings joy, so get started today.

Sticky Orange Chicken

A deliciously sticky and sweet orange chicken dish, perfect for a quick dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 0.25 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.5 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
  • 1 unit Zest of 1 orange
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sliced green onions (for garnish)
  • to taste Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until fully coated. This will help create a crispy texture when frying.
  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
  • Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger until well combined.
  • Combine Chicken and Sauce: In the same skillet, pour the sauce mixture over the remaining oil and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the fried chicken pieces, stirring gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the chicken and toss to incorporate the flavor.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the sticky orange chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

For best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice.
Keyword chicken, dinner, orange, sticky

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