Go Back
A close-up shot of crispy chicken pieces being tossed in a glossy, homemade orange chicken sauce in a large wok.

Orange Chicken Bowl Recipe (Better Than Takeout!)

This better-than-takeout Orange Chicken Bowl recipe features extra crispy chicken tossed in a perfectly balanced, sweet and tangy orange sauce. An easy and delicious 30-minute meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-American
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3-4 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice about 3-4 oranges
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce low sodium recommended
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry
For Serving
  • 4 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Wok
  • 1 Small saucepan
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Instructions
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the beaten egg. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dip each egg-coated chicken piece into the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Set aside.
  2. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch slurry and whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add half of the coated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  4. Combine and Serve: Return the skillet to low heat. Add all the cooked chicken back to the skillet and pour the orange sauce over it. Gently toss until all the chicken is evenly coated and glossy. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top with the orange chicken, steamed broccoli, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken; cook in batches for the crispiest results.
For a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
This recipe works well for meal prep. Store the sauce, chicken, and rice in separate containers.
QR Code linking back to recipe