Crispy Sticky Glazed Orange Chicken is a beloved American-Chinese dish that combines crunchy fried chicken with a vibrant orange glaze. The chicken is coated in a light, crispy batter and tossed in a glossy sauce made from fresh orange juice, zest, and honey. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful balance of sweetness and citrusy brightness.
Cook with confidence
Cook's notes
For the crispiest texture, ensure the chicken pieces are completely dry before breading. Maintain the oil temperature at 375°F (190°C) for optimal frying; too low will result in greasy chicken. Toss the chicken in the glaze quickly to maintain its crispiness.
Substitutions
If you don't have chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used instead, though they may be less juicy. For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Storage & leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Common failures
Common failures include soggy chicken if the oil temperature is too low or if the chicken is not drained properly after frying. To prevent this, ensure the oil is hot enough and use a wire rack for draining. Additionally, avoid overcooking the glaze, as it can become too thick and sticky.
Why these ingredients
How each main ingredient earns its place in this recipe
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orange juice
Fresh orange juice provides a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey and enhances the overall citrus profile of the dish.
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cornstarch
Cornstarch is essential for creating a light, crispy coating on the chicken, ensuring it fries up perfectly without becoming heavy or greasy.
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chicken thighs
Using chicken thighs adds moisture and richness to the dish, making it more flavorful compared to leaner cuts like chicken breasts.
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honey
Honey not only sweetens the glaze but also contributes to its glossy texture, helping the sauce cling beautifully to the chicken.
Preparation
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Step 1 10 minBegin by patting the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, coat the chicken pieces in the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully covered. Next, transfer the chicken into a bowl with cornstarch and toss vigorously until every piece is evenly coated in a powdery, dry coating. This process should take about 10 minutes.
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Step 2 15 min
Pour 2 inches of frying oil into a heavy Dutch oven and heat it to 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Deep-fry the chicken for 5–6 minutes until the crust is pale gold and shatteringly crisp. Once done, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil. This frying process will take approximately 15 minutes.
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Step 3 2 min
In a wide wok or skillet over medium heat, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue stirring for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a radiant, glowing bright orange glaze.
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Step 4 1 min
Once the glaze has thickened, dump the hot crispy chicken directly into the wok. Toss vigorously to ensure that every nugget is heavily cloaked in the glossy orange glaze. Make sure to coat all pieces evenly for the best flavor.
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Step 5 2 minAfter tossing the chicken in the glaze, remove it from the heat. Prepare to serve by garnishing the dish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced fresh orange wheels, and sliced scallions for added flavor and presentation.
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Step 6 1 min
Serve the Crispy Sticky Glazed Orange Chicken immediately while it's hot and crispy. Enjoy this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
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