Crispy Orange Chicken with a Zesty Twist for Easy Dinners

Name: Crispy Orange Chicken with a Zesty Twist for Easy Dinners
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup corn starch (or arrowroot powder); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste); 3 cloves minced garlic (fresh is best); 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup); 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (to taste); 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil); 1 cup canola oil (enough to cover the skillet bottom); 2 tablespoons water (for mixing with corn starch)

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on July 29, 2025

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As I diced fresh oranges this morning, the bright, citrusy aroma whisked me back to my favorite childhood takeout spot—an inviting little corner restaurant that served the crispiest, most flavorful orange chicken. Today, I’m thrilled to share my twist on that nostalgic dish: Double Crunch Orange Chicken. This recipe is a game-changer, packed with irresistible crunch and a quick, zesty sauce that elevates an ordinary weeknight dinner into something special. Not only is it a speedy preparation that fits effortlessly into your busy schedule, but it’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Ready to explore how easy it is to recreate this crispy orange chicken magic at home?

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: Your taste buds will dance with joy as the zesty orange sauce perfectly complements the crispy chicken.

Quick & Easy: Not a lot of time? No problem! This recipe is designed for busy evenings, allowing you to whip up deliciousness in no time.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish they’ll rave about, and elevate your weeknight meals beyond takeout!

Versatile: Customize it by swapping chicken breasts for thighs or even baking for a healthier option. The possibilities are endless!

Stress-Free Cooking: Save time and energy to enjoy more moments with loved ones, especially when paired with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal. This is the perfect recipe to enjoy simple and tasty comfort food at home, just like my Cheesy Chicken Stuffed potatoes or my Garlic Chicken Gnocchi.

Crispy Orange Chicken Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Choose boneless and skinless for easy preparation and tender bites.
Eggs – These bind the flour to the chicken, creating that essential extra crunch.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the golden crust; substitute with gluten-free flour for a lighter version.
Corn Starch – This serves to thicken the glaze; arrowroot powder works as a gluten-free substitute.

• For the Crunchy Coating

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste preferences.
Ground Ginger – Adds warmth and depth to the chicken’s coating; fresh ginger can be used for more intensity.
Paprika – Contributes a mild earthiness and beautiful color to the crust.
Cayenne Pepper – For that extra kick; add more or less depending on your spice tolerance.

• For the Zesty Sauce

Minced Garlic – Infuses the sauce with an aromatic punch; fresh is always best!
Orange Juice – The star of the dish, delivering sweet tang; freshly squeezed for an authentic taste.
Orange Zest – enhances the orange flavor in the sauce; opt for organic, unwaxed oranges for purity.
Honey – Balances the acidity of the sauce beautifully; maple syrup can be a delightful alternative.
Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a bright acidity to the sauce; substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Chili Flakes or Crushed Chili Paste – Adjust spice levels to suit your preference; this adds a nice warmth.
Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – Ideal for frying; peanut oil gives a rich flavor, though canola works too.

• For Frying

Canola Oil – Ensures the chicken fries evenly to a crunchy finish; you need enough to cover the skillet bottom.
Water – Used to mix with corn starch for achieving the right sauce thickness.

This Crispy Orange Chicken can transform your typical dinner into something memorable, leaving your taste buds yearning for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by taking your chicken breasts and pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. If you prefer, you can slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets. This step not only ensures even cooking but also helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior with the Double Crunch Orange Chicken.

Step 2: Make Dredge Mix
In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, nutmeg, thyme, sage, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic mixture will create a flavorful, crunchy coating for your chicken. Save any leftover dredge mix for future recipes; it’s a great time-saver!

Step 3: Prepare Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a splash of water until well blended. This egg wash will help the flour mixture adhere to the chicken, enhancing that crunchy texture you desire in your Crispy Orange Chicken. Set it aside as you move on to the next step.

Step 4: Coat Chicken
Season each piece of chicken with salt and pepper before dredging it in the flour mixture. Next, dip it into the egg wash and back into the flour mix for double coating. This technique will ensure a delightful crunch when fried, creating the ideal crispy texture in your Double Crunch Orange Chicken.

Step 5: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, pour enough canola oil to cover the bottom, about 1/4 inch deep, and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The right oil temperature is crucial for making sure the chicken fries evenly and turns that gorgeous golden brown.

Step 6: Fry Chicken
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently. Drain your crispy chicken on a wire rack before moving on to the sauce preparation.

Step 7: Prepare Sauce
In a saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add fresh orange juice, zest, honey, rice wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to combine flavors, stirring occasionally.

Step 8: Combine
To thicken your orange sauce, mix corn starch with a little water to create a slurry, then gradually stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Finally, dip your crispy orange chicken pieces into the sauce to ensure they are coated in that delightful glaze, and serve promptly with rice or noodles.

Make Ahead Options

These Double Crunch Orange Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in your seasoning mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to infuse it with flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the marinated chicken as instructed, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, and dip the crispy pieces for that delightful finishing touch. This way, you’ll enjoy a quick, stress-free dinner while ensuring that your dish is just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Orange Chicken

Feel free to explore these delicious variations and substitutions to personalize your crispy orange chicken experience!

Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Thighs hold moisture exceptionally well, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent.
Baked Crunch: For a healthier twist, bake your chicken instead of frying. Simply coat as usual, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. The result will be crispy yet lighter!
Tangerine Juice: Use tangerine juice in place of orange juice for a subtle sweetness and unique flavor profile. It adds a lovely citrusy twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds.
Almond Flour: For gluten-intolerant family members, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour to make a gluten-free crispy coating. It creates a nice nutty flavor that compliments the orange glaze beautifully.
Hot Sauce: If you crave some heat, add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the orange glaze. This simple addition will kick up the spice factor, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some diced bell peppers and broccoli while frying the chicken for an added crunch and a pop of color. These veggies soak up the zesty flavor, making it a colorful one-pan dish.
Coconut Oil: Substitute canola oil with coconut oil for frying. This will impart a slight coconut flavor to the chicken while ensuring it remains crispy; a delightful pairing with the orange sauce!
Lemon Zest: Mix in a bit of lemon zest with your orange zest to enhance the freshness of the sauce. This combination provides a vibrant zip that adds excitement to your dish.

Enhancing your kitchen adventures has never been easier! If you’re in the mood for more comforting recipes, you might want to try my Sweet Sticky Chicken or a delicious plate of Garlic Butter Chicken. Enjoy your culinary creations!

What to Serve with Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Elevate your Double Crunch Orange Chicken meal by pairing it with vibrant side dishes that complement its crispy texture and zesty flavor.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Provides a fluffy base that soaks up the delicious orange sauce. The subtle sweetness of the rice perfectly balances the dish’s tanginess.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add a colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Their crunch and slight bitterness create a delightful contrast with the rich chicken flavors.
Garlic Noodles: Whip up some savory garlic noodles that are easy to prepare and offer a comforting taste. They marry beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce of the chicken.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Roasted or glazed carrots enhance the dish’s sweet profile, offering a nutritious side that complements the dishes’ overall flavor theme.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing adds brightness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the orange chicken.
Chilled Green Tea: For a perfectly soothing drink, serve chilled green tea. Its earthy flavor will cleanse your palate between bites.

Each of these pairings not only rounds out the meal but also adds to the experience, ensuring your dinner is both satisfying and memorable!

Expert Tips for Crispy Orange Chicken

• Oil Temperature: Maintain an even medium heat for frying to achieve a golden crust without flavor loss. Too hot, and the chicken will burn; too cool, and it’ll be soggy.

• Double Coating: For the ultimate crunch, ensure you coat the chicken twice in the flour mixture. This simple step guarantees the signature crunch of your Crispy Orange Chicken.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh orange juice and zest—these are crucial for elevating the flavor of your homemade sauce.

• Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust the spice level in the sauce according to your preference. Remember, the right amount of chili flakes enhances flavor while keeping it enjoyable.

• Draining Method: After frying, place chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps it crispy by allowing air circulation, freeing it from excess grease.

• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. For the best texture, reheat in an oven rather than a microwave to preserve the crunch.

How to Store and Freeze Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Double Crunch Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispy texture, avoid adding sauce until ready to serve.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore that delightful crunch before serving.

Re-saucing: If you prefer a saucy dish, warm the orange sauce separately and drizzle it over the reheated chicken just before serving.

Double Crunch Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh, organic unwaxed oranges. The zest and juice of these oranges provide a vibrant, zesty sweetness that elevates your Double Crunch Orange Chicken.

How should I store leftovers?
To preserve your crispy leftovers, store the Double Crunch Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid adding the sauce until you’re ready to serve to keep the chicken crunchy. Simply reheat in the oven to regain that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze Double Crunch Orange Chicken?
Very! To freeze, arrange the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Ensure to label it with the date for reference.

What’s the best way to reheat the chicken?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps the chicken crispy, just like when it was freshly cooked!

How can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
Certainly! If you prefer a milder sauce, start with a small amount of chili flakes or crushed chili paste and taste as you go. You can always add more if you’re looking for that extra kick. It’s all about balancing flavors according to your personal taste!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Sure! This recipe includes common allergens like wheat (from the flour) and eggs, so if you have allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and an egg substitute, such as ground flaxseed mixed with water as a binding agent for the chicken coating. Always check the specific brands you use to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.