If you crave a dish that bursts with flavor, let me introduce you to Sticky Orange Chicken! This easy recipe brings the perfect blend of sweet and tangy right to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll impress family and friends in no time. Follow along as I guide you through making mouthwatering Sticky Orange Chicken, perfect for any night of the week!
![For this dish, you will need: - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for crunchy texture These main ingredients create a juicy and crispy base that holds the sauce perfectly. To make the sauce, gather: - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes These ingredients blend together to form a sweet, tangy, and sticky sauce that coats the chicken. You can add extra flavor and fun with: - 2 green onions, thinly sliced - Sesame seeds For sides, serve your Sticky Orange Chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. They add color and nutrition to your meal. Want the full recipe? Check out the [Full Recipe]. Start by taking your chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly. In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour until they are fully coated. Next, dip each piece into the beaten eggs. Make sure all sides are covered. Finally, roll the chicken in panko breadcrumbs. This gives the chicken a nice crunch. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate while you heat the oil. Grab a large skillet and add vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to fry. Add the breaded chicken pieces in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally, so they brown nicely. Once golden brown and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to lift them out. Place them on paper towels to drain any extra oil. In a separate bowl, mix the sauce ingredients. Combine freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together until smooth and the cornstarch dissolves. This mix is what adds flavor to your chicken. Pour the sauce into the same skillet you used for frying. Keep the heat on medium. Stir constantly as it simmers. This prevents the sauce from sticking. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Return the fried chicken to the skillet. Toss it gently in the sauce until every piece is covered. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through. Now it’s time to serve! Transfer the Sticky Orange Chicken onto a serving platter. For a fresh touch, garnish with sliced green onions. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy steamed rice. Drizzle any leftover sauce over the rice. You can also add fresh orange slices on the side for a pop of color. Enjoy your culinary creation! To get that ideal sticky sauce, start with the right cornstarch amount. Use one tablespoon for a thick glaze. Mix it well with the other sauce ingredients to avoid lumps. When you heat the sauce, stir it often. This helps prevent sticking and ensures it thickens evenly. Once you combine the chicken with the sauce, let it simmer a bit. This gives the flavors time to blend. Using the right tools makes cooking fun and easy. A large skillet works best for frying the chicken. It gives you space to cook in batches. A slotted spoon helps you lift the chicken out of the hot oil. For mixing the sauce, a whisk is key. It helps combine all the ingredients smoothly. You might also want measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. If you don’t have orange juice, try another fruit juice like pineapple. For soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can work too. If you want a sweet touch, maple syrup can replace honey. If you’re out of sesame oil, olive oil or peanut oil can add flavor. Don’t hesitate to get creative! For the full recipe, check the details above. {{image_4}} Baking is a great way to make this dish lighter. For baked sticky orange chicken, simply skip the frying step. Coat the chicken pieces in flour, eggs, and panko as usual. Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes. This method gives you a crispy texture with less oil. If you're looking for a vegetarian twist, try using tofu instead of chicken. Press and drain firm tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Follow the same coating process with flour, eggs, and panko. Fry or bake the tofu until golden. Toss it in the same orange sauce. It’s just as tasty and satisfying! For those who love spice, add extra heat to your sticky orange chicken. You can increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. Another option is to mix in sliced fresh jalapeños or chili paste. This will give your dish a nice kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy the added warmth in every bite! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To keep your Sticky Orange Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the chicken in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps keep the flavors intact. Leftovers can last about three to four days in the fridge. To reheat your Sticky Orange Chicken, use the stovetop for best results. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. This keeps the chicken moist. Stir occasionally until it's heated through. You can also use a microwave, but cover the dish to avoid drying it out. Heat in short bursts, checking often. If you want to save Sticky Orange Chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy that sticky goodness later! To make the sauce thicker, add more cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This method ensures a nice, sticky texture that clings to the chicken. Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks faster. Just cut it into small pieces, like the thighs. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be tasty. Make sure not to overcook it for the best results. Sticky Orange Chicken pairs well with several sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed rice - Stir-fried vegetables - Noodles - Quinoa - A fresh salad These sides balance the sweetness of the chicken and add more color to your plate. Sticky Orange Chicken lasts for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat it thoroughly before serving to enjoy its full flavor. Yes, you can prepare Sticky Orange Chicken in advance. You can bread and fry the chicken earlier in the day. Just store it separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and toss the chicken in it. This makes meal prep easy and quick. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Sticky Orange Chicken is a delicious dish made with simple ingredients. We covered how to prepare the chicken, make the sauce, and combine them for the perfect meal. Tips on achieving the right texture and storage methods help you enjoy this dish over time. For variety, you can try healthier versions, vegetarian options, or spicy twists. With these steps, you can create a meal that impresses and satisfies. Enjoy making this dish your own!](https://homedishhaven.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/738485b5-e575-4d88-9e54-8cb66a8a1b36.webp)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Sticky Orange Chicken
For this dish, you will need:
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for crunchy texture
These main ingredients create a juicy and crispy base that holds the sauce perfectly.
Additional Ingredients for the Orange Sauce
To make the sauce, gather:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
These ingredients blend together to form a sweet, tangy, and sticky sauce that coats the chicken.
Optional Garnishes and Sides
You can add extra flavor and fun with:
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds
For sides, serve your Sticky Orange Chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. They add color and nutrition to your meal. Want the full recipe? Check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by taking your chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly. In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour until they are fully coated. Next, dip each piece into the beaten eggs. Make sure all sides are covered. Finally, roll the chicken in panko breadcrumbs. This gives the chicken a nice crunch. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate while you heat the oil.
Frying the Chicken
Grab a large skillet and add vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to fry. Add the breaded chicken pieces in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally, so they brown nicely. Once golden brown and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to lift them out. Place them on paper towels to drain any extra oil.
Making and Cooking the Orange Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the sauce ingredients. Combine freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together until smooth and the cornstarch dissolves. This mix is what adds flavor to your chicken.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce into the same skillet you used for frying. Keep the heat on medium. Stir constantly as it simmers. This prevents the sauce from sticking. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Return the fried chicken to the skillet. Toss it gently in the sauce until every piece is covered. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through.
Final Presentation
Now it’s time to serve! Transfer the Sticky Orange Chicken onto a serving platter. For a fresh touch, garnish with sliced green onions. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy steamed rice. Drizzle any leftover sauce over the rice. You can also add fresh orange slices on the side for a pop of color. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Sticky Consistency
To get that ideal sticky sauce, start with the right cornstarch amount. Use one tablespoon for a thick glaze. Mix it well with the other sauce ingredients to avoid lumps. When you heat the sauce, stir it often. This helps prevent sticking and ensures it thickens evenly. Once you combine the chicken with the sauce, let it simmer a bit. This gives the flavors time to blend.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
Using the right tools makes cooking fun and easy. A large skillet works best for frying the chicken. It gives you space to cook in batches. A slotted spoon helps you lift the chicken out of the hot oil. For mixing the sauce, a whisk is key. It helps combine all the ingredients smoothly. You might also want measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. If you don’t have orange juice, try another fruit juice like pineapple. For soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can work too. If you want a sweet touch, maple syrup can replace honey. If you’re out of sesame oil, olive oil or peanut oil can add flavor. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Variations
Healthier Options: Baked Sticky Orange Chicken
Baking is a great way to make this dish lighter. For baked sticky orange chicken, simply skip the frying step. Coat the chicken pieces in flour, eggs, and panko as usual. Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes. This method gives you a crispy texture with less oil.
Vegetarian Alternative: Orange Tofu
If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try using tofu instead of chicken. Press and drain firm tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Follow the same coating process with flour, eggs, and panko. Fry or bake the tofu until golden. Toss it in the same orange sauce. It’s just as tasty and satisfying!
Spicy Additions: Enhancing Flavor with More Heat
For those who love spice, add extra heat to your sticky orange chicken. You can increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. Another option is to mix in sliced fresh jalapeños or chili paste. This will give your dish a nice kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy the added warmth in every bite!
For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Sticky Orange Chicken
To keep your Sticky Orange Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the chicken in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps keep the flavors intact. Leftovers can last about three to four days in the fridge.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor and Texture
To reheat your Sticky Orange Chicken, use the stovetop for best results. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. This keeps the chicken moist. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also use a microwave, but cover the dish to avoid drying it out. Heat in short bursts, checking often.
Freezing Guidelines and Duration
If you want to save Sticky Orange Chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy that sticky goodness later!
FAQs
How to make the sauce thicker?
To make the sauce thicker, add more cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This method ensures a nice, sticky texture that clings to the chicken.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks faster. Just cut it into small pieces, like the thighs. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be tasty. Make sure not to overcook it for the best results.
What can I serve with Sticky Orange Chicken?
Sticky Orange Chicken pairs well with several sides. Here are some great options:
– Steamed rice
– Stir-fried vegetables
– Noodles
– Quinoa
– A fresh salad
These sides balance the sweetness of the chicken and add more color to your plate.
How long does Sticky Orange Chicken last in the fridge?
Sticky Orange Chicken lasts for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat it thoroughly before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
Can I prepare Sticky Orange Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Sticky Orange Chicken in advance. You can bread and fry the chicken earlier in the day. Just store it separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and toss the chicken in it. This makes meal prep easy and quick. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Sticky Orange Chicken is a delicious dish made with simple ingredients. We covered how to prepare the chicken, make the sauce, and combine them for the perfect meal. Tips on achieving the right texture and storage methods help you enjoy this dish over time. For variety, you can try healthier versions, vegetarian options, or spicy twists.
With these steps, you can create a meal that impresses and satisfies. Enjoy making this dish your own!
![For this dish, you will need: - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for crunchy texture These main ingredients create a juicy and crispy base that holds the sauce perfectly. To make the sauce, gather: - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes These ingredients blend together to form a sweet, tangy, and sticky sauce that coats the chicken. You can add extra flavor and fun with: - 2 green onions, thinly sliced - Sesame seeds For sides, serve your Sticky Orange Chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. They add color and nutrition to your meal. Want the full recipe? Check out the [Full Recipe]. Start by taking your chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly. In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour until they are fully coated. Next, dip each piece into the beaten eggs. Make sure all sides are covered. Finally, roll the chicken in panko breadcrumbs. This gives the chicken a nice crunch. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate while you heat the oil. Grab a large skillet and add vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to fry. Add the breaded chicken pieces in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally, so they brown nicely. Once golden brown and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to lift them out. Place them on paper towels to drain any extra oil. In a separate bowl, mix the sauce ingredients. Combine freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together until smooth and the cornstarch dissolves. This mix is what adds flavor to your chicken. Pour the sauce into the same skillet you used for frying. Keep the heat on medium. Stir constantly as it simmers. This prevents the sauce from sticking. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Return the fried chicken to the skillet. Toss it gently in the sauce until every piece is covered. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat everything through. Now it’s time to serve! Transfer the Sticky Orange Chicken onto a serving platter. For a fresh touch, garnish with sliced green onions. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch. For a complete meal, serve it over fluffy steamed rice. Drizzle any leftover sauce over the rice. You can also add fresh orange slices on the side for a pop of color. Enjoy your culinary creation! To get that ideal sticky sauce, start with the right cornstarch amount. Use one tablespoon for a thick glaze. Mix it well with the other sauce ingredients to avoid lumps. When you heat the sauce, stir it often. This helps prevent sticking and ensures it thickens evenly. Once you combine the chicken with the sauce, let it simmer a bit. This gives the flavors time to blend. Using the right tools makes cooking fun and easy. A large skillet works best for frying the chicken. It gives you space to cook in batches. A slotted spoon helps you lift the chicken out of the hot oil. For mixing the sauce, a whisk is key. It helps combine all the ingredients smoothly. You might also want measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. If you don’t have orange juice, try another fruit juice like pineapple. For soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can work too. If you want a sweet touch, maple syrup can replace honey. If you’re out of sesame oil, olive oil or peanut oil can add flavor. Don’t hesitate to get creative! For the full recipe, check the details above. {{image_4}} Baking is a great way to make this dish lighter. For baked sticky orange chicken, simply skip the frying step. Coat the chicken pieces in flour, eggs, and panko as usual. Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes. This method gives you a crispy texture with less oil. If you're looking for a vegetarian twist, try using tofu instead of chicken. Press and drain firm tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Follow the same coating process with flour, eggs, and panko. Fry or bake the tofu until golden. Toss it in the same orange sauce. It’s just as tasty and satisfying! For those who love spice, add extra heat to your sticky orange chicken. You can increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. Another option is to mix in sliced fresh jalapeños or chili paste. This will give your dish a nice kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoy the added warmth in every bite! For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. To keep your Sticky Orange Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the chicken in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps keep the flavors intact. Leftovers can last about three to four days in the fridge. To reheat your Sticky Orange Chicken, use the stovetop for best results. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. This keeps the chicken moist. Stir occasionally until it's heated through. You can also use a microwave, but cover the dish to avoid drying it out. Heat in short bursts, checking often. If you want to save Sticky Orange Chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy that sticky goodness later! To make the sauce thicker, add more cornstarch. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This method ensures a nice, sticky texture that clings to the chicken. Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks faster. Just cut it into small pieces, like the thighs. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be tasty. Make sure not to overcook it for the best results. Sticky Orange Chicken pairs well with several sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed rice - Stir-fried vegetables - Noodles - Quinoa - A fresh salad These sides balance the sweetness of the chicken and add more color to your plate. Sticky Orange Chicken lasts for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat it thoroughly before serving to enjoy its full flavor. Yes, you can prepare Sticky Orange Chicken in advance. You can bread and fry the chicken earlier in the day. Just store it separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and toss the chicken in it. This makes meal prep easy and quick. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Sticky Orange Chicken is a delicious dish made with simple ingredients. We covered how to prepare the chicken, make the sauce, and combine them for the perfect meal. Tips on achieving the right texture and storage methods help you enjoy this dish over time. For variety, you can try healthier versions, vegetarian options, or spicy twists. With these steps, you can create a meal that impresses and satisfies. Enjoy making this dish your own!](https://homedishhaven.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/738485b5-e575-4d88-9e54-8cb66a8a1b36-300x300.webp)