Baked Orange Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Baked Orange Chicken. I remember the first time I tried it; the vibrant citrus aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. Whenever I make this dish, I feel a wave of nostalgia, as it takes me back to those sunny days filled with laughter and good company. This recipe, with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, quickly became a family favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together loved ones around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, Baked Orange Chicken is my go-to dish that never fails to impress.

Baked Orange Chicken Ingredients

The ingredients for Baked Orange Chicken come together beautifully to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Each component plays an essential role in building the overall taste and texture. The key players include the chicken, which provides a juicy base, and the orange juice, which adds that bright, zesty flavor that ties everything together.

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – The star of the dish; juicy pieces that soak up all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper – A touch of spice to enhance the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential to bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
• 1 cup cornstarch – This gives the chicken a deliciously crispy coating.
• 2 eggs, beaten – Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons oil – Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness to the sauce and caramelizes beautifully.
• 1/2 cup orange juice – The star ingredient that gives the dish its name and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Adds a tangy depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Imparts umami flavor for a more complex taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped – A flavor enhancer that complements the dish perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes – A hint of heat to balance the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest – Boosts the orange flavor in the dish.
• 2 tablespoons green onion – For garnish and a fresh, crisp finish.

Cooking Instructions for Baked Orange Chicken

Cooking Baked Orange Chicken is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s not only delicious but visually appealing as well!

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven is fully heated before placing your dish inside, as this ensures even cooking.

2. Grease a 9 X 13 baking dish with oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make for easier cleanup.

3. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Toss well to ensure even seasoning.

4. Coat the seasoned chicken pieces thoroughly with cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy coating. Make sure each piece is well coated.

5. Dip the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs. This will help the cornstarch adhere better during cooking.

6. Repeat the coating process with the remaining chicken pieces to ensure that they all have a crispy texture.

7. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook until they are browned on all sides, taking about 4 to 5 minutes. Look for a golden color to indicate they’re ready.

8. While the chicken is cooking, take a medium bowl and combine the ingredients for the orange sauce: brown sugar, orange juice, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.

9. Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the top, ensuring all pieces are well covered.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes. Every 15 minutes, stir in the chicken and sauce to ensure even cooking. Look for the sauce to thicken and become sticky as it cooks.

11. Once done, the chicken should be well-coated in the thickened sauce. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions on top.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some pro tips to elevate your Baked Orange Chicken experience even further. Whether you want to experiment with flavors or ensure the perfect cook, these tips will guide you!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve alongside steamed rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Add sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add more red chili flakes in the sauce for a spicier version.
• Meal Prep: Consider preparing the sauce ahead of time for quicker assembly during busy weeknights.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Baked Orange Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy your dish:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, serve your chicken over fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Brighten up the plate with a side of stir-fried veggies such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad can complement the rich flavors of the chicken, adding a refreshing crunch.
• Casual Gatherings: Baked Orange Chicken is perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. Serve it with a variety of sides to let everyone customize their plate.
• Lunch Boxes: The leftovers make a great addition to lunch boxes. Pair with rice and some fresh veggies for a balanced meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, consider serving it with a fruit salad for a light, refreshing twist.
• Leftover Makeovers: Use leftovers in wraps or sandwiches for a quick and tasty lunch option.

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout on any dinner table. Its simplicity and versatility make it a recipe worth trying. I encourage you to give it a go and enjoy the deliciousness it brings to your meal!

Baked Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Orange Chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that melts in your mouth. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the crispy chicken coated in a delicious orange sauce that will leave you craving more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs beaten eggs
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons green onion

Equipment

• 9-inch casserole dish

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven is fully heated before placing your dish inside, as this ensures even cooking.
2. Grease a 9 X 13 baking dish with oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
3. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Toss well to ensure even seasoning.
4. Coat the seasoned chicken pieces thoroughly with cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy coating. Make sure each piece is well coated.
5. Dip the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs. This will help the cornstarch adhere better during cooking.
6. Repeat the coating process with the remaining chicken pieces to ensure that they all have a crispy texture.
7. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook until they are browned on all sides, taking about 4 to 5 minutes. Look for a golden color to indicate they’re ready.
8. While the chicken is cooking, take a medium bowl and combine the ingredients for the orange sauce: brown sugar, orange juice, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
9. Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the top, ensuring all pieces are well covered.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes. Every 15 minutes, stir in the chicken and sauce to ensure even cooking. Look for the sauce to thicken and become sticky as it cooks.
11. Once done, the chicken should be well-coated in the thickened sauce. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions on top.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve alongside steamed rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Add sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add more red chili flakes in the sauce for a spicier version.
• Meal Prep: Consider preparing the sauce ahead of time for quicker assembly during busy weeknights.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!