Print

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a vibrant, tangy, and sweet orange glaze. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe balances citrusy brightness with savory soy sauce and a sticky, glossy finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or serving guests, it’s a family-friendly meal that pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
  • 2 tbsp oil (for cooking)

Orange Glaze

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Lightly coat each piece with cornstarch to help create a crispy exterior when cooked.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Make the Orange Glaze: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering glaze, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a glossy, clingy consistency.
  5. Combine and Coat: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the thickened orange glaze. Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes until chicken is heated through and well coated.
  6. Serve: Transfer the Asian Glazed Orange Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh orange zest. Serve with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

  • Use fresh orange juice and ginger for brighter, more authentic flavors.
  • Do not skip the cornstarch; it is key to achieving the perfect thick and glossy sauce.
  • Cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain crispiness.
  • Adjust the balance of sweetness and acidity by tasting and tweaking honey and rice vinegar amounts.
  • Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving to let it thicken and cling better to the chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chicken, asian glazed chicken, quick dinner, sweet and savory chicken, orange glaze, family-friendly recipe, gluten free orange chicken