Description
A homemade version of classic orange chicken that is shatteringly crisp and features a bright, zesty sauce made with fresh fruit. This recipe uses a double-fry technique to ensure the coating stays crunchy and is ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 large fresh oranges (for juice and zest)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into 1.5-inch bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and white pepper.
- Whisk egg white until frothy, toss chicken in it, then gradually add cornstarch to create a light, sandy coating.
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove and drain on a wire rack.
- Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry chicken again for 1-2 minutes to double-fry for extra crispiness. Drain again.
- In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk cornstarch slurry and stir into the simmering sauce. Cook for 1 minute until glossy and thickened.
- Toss fried chicken in the sauce to coat. Serve immediately garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
Pat chicken dry before coating to ensure crispiness. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature. Use fresh orange juice and zest for best flavor. Double-frying is essential for the signature crunch. Reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven to restore crispness; avoid the microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: orange chicken, crispy chicken, chinese food, homemade takeout, deep fried chicken, orange sauce, dinner recipe