This Baked Orange Chicken is a healthier twist on a classic takeout favorite. Instead of frying, the chicken is baked to golden perfection and then coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy orange sauce. The vibrant citrus flavor, combined with a hint of ginger and garlic, creates a deliciously sticky glaze that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Serve this dish over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with vegetable oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Orange Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the orange sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the sesame oil.
- Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and place it in a large bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the orange chicken with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables.
Enjoy your flavorful and healthier Baked Orange Chicken!
