Print

Better-Than-Takeout Orange Chicken

Print Recipe

A healthier, homemade version of the classic orange chicken that is sweet, tangy, and baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Optional Garnish: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
  4. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
  8. While the chicken bakes, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
  9. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic to the saucepan.
  10. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  11. Stir in the sesame oil.
  12. Once the chicken is baked, add the cooked chicken to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  13. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

For extra crunch, double coat the chicken. Use fresh orange juice for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chicken, homemade, healthier version, baked chicken, Asian cuisine

Find it online: https://www.recipessmart.com/better-than-takeout-orange-chicken-heaven/