Description
Baked Orange Chicken is a healthier take on the classic takeout favorite, featuring crispy oven-baked chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and garlicky orange sauce. This easy family-friendly meal delivers bold citrus flavor without deep frying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
- Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Coat each piece of chicken in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Meanwhile, combine the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Whisk together the cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the baked chicken with the orange sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes before tossing with the sauce.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese-American