Easy Asian Glazed Orange Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor and sticky, savory sweetness, this Asian Glazed Orange Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a simple yet irresistible combination of tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce that’s both tangy and a little bit spicy. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward steps and everyday ingredients. Once you try it, Asian Glazed Orange Chicken will likely become a favorite go-to dinner in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Bold Flavors: Combines sweet, tangy, and umami notes that explode in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the crispy chicken glazed in this irresistible sauce.
• Versatile: Perfect on its own or served alongside rice and veggies for a balanced meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Glossy orange sauce adds visual appeal, making it great for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you’ll need for Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is simple, pantry-friendly, and full of flavors that complement each other perfectly. Each ingredient plays a role in creating the dish’s signature balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes, along with a satisfying texture.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Boneless and skinless pieces work best for tender, juicy chicken.
• Orange juice and zest: Freshly squeezed juice and zest give the sauce its vibrant citrus punch.
• Soy sauce: Adds salty depth and umami to balance the sweetness.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that add warmth and complexity.
• Honey or brown sugar: Brings the signature sweetness to the glaze and helps it caramelize.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tanginess that brightens the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce and create that perfect glossy finish.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken crispy outside and tender inside.
• Red pepper flakes or chili paste (optional): For a subtle kick of heat that enhances the balance.

Variations for Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. It’s wonderfully adaptable whether you want it spicier, lighter, or packed with extra veggies.

• Spicy Boost: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to kick up the heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder for thickening.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based twist.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.
• Less Sweet: Adjust honey or sugar quantity to reduce sweetness without losing flavor balance.

How to Make Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Pat the pieces dry to help the coating stick and seasoning penetrate better. Toss with a little salt, pepper, and cornstarch which will create a light crust when cooked.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat. This vibrant mixture forms the flavorful glaze that will coat your chicken perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Pour the orange sauce into the hot skillet. Bring it to a gentle boil, then whisk in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water). Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes shiny and smooth.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the thickened sauce until every piece is well coated. Let it simmer together for a minute so the chicken soaks up that gorgeous orange glaze. Serve immediately for best taste!

Pro Tips for Making Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

• Dry Chicken First: Patting your chicken dry before coating helps achieve a crisp outer layer.
• Fresh Citrus: Use fresh orange juice and zest for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to maintain a crispy texture.
• Adjust Sweetness Gradually: Start with less honey or sugar, then add more based on your taste preference.
• Make Sauce Ahead: The sauce can be made in advance to save time during cooking.

How to Serve Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can instantly elevate your Asian Glazed Orange Chicken. Sprinkle chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro over the top for bursts of color and added flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati. For some greens, a simple sautéed bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli work wonderfully to balance the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Asian Glazed Orange Chicken in small bowls for casual dining or over a bed of crispy noodles for contrast in textures. You can also stuff it into lettuce wraps or bao buns to turn dinner into a fun hands-on experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Asian Glazed Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of water or orange juice when reheating to restore the glaze consistency.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Cool the chicken completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent the chicken from drying out as it warms.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine but tend to be leaner and can dry out faster, so watch the cooking time carefully to keep them juicy.

How spicy is this recipe?

The base recipe has just a subtle hint of heat, but you can easily adjust spice levels by adding more red pepper flakes or chili paste according to your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy alternative and use gluten-free cornstarch.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! The orange glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making the cooking process quicker and easier.

What should I serve with Asian Glazed Orange Chicken?

Classic steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, and even simple noodles all pair wonderfully to round out this flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Glazed Orange Chicken recipe is a delicious gateway to vibrant, easy homemade Asian cooking that everyone will enjoy. Its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, combined with crispy chicken, makes meal prep both fun and rewarding. Give it a try tonight — your taste buds and loved ones will thank you!

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