Crispy chicken bites coated in a flavorful orange glaze make this dish a crowd-pleaser, perfect for dinner or a weekend treat.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying, Stir-Frying
Cuisine:Asian-American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For the Orange Sauce:
1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
1 tbsp orange zest
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/2 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Set Up the Breading Station:
In one bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
Bread the Chicken:
Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat with the cornstarch-flour mixture. Shake off any excess.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Make the Orange Sauce:
Combine Sauce Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Thicken the Sauce:
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Combine and Serve:
Coat the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, toss the fried chicken with the orange sauce until evenly coated.
Serve:
Serve immediately over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet to maintain crispiness.