Are you craving that classic takeout flavour but want something homemade and easy? This is my Easy Baked Orange Chicken – a recipe I created because I wanted something sweet, sticky, and simple to make at home.
It takes only 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, so it’s perfect for busy evenings. The chicken turns out juicy, with a light panko crunch, and the bright orange glaze ties everything together.
Why I love this Orange Chicken Recipe
The sauce is sweet with a slight tang, thanks to the orange juice and honey. It goes so well with rice and steamed broccoli. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer something leaner.
Yield: Serves: 4
Orange Chicken Recipe
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey, preferably local
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (zest before juicing)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice and steamed broccoli for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F degrees (about 180°C.). Grease a large casserole dish with one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Crack an egg into a shallow dish and lightly beat. In a second shallow dish, add cornstarch, and in a third shallow dish, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Season each with salt and pepper, and do the same for the chicken pieces.
- Dredge each chicken piece into the cornstarch, then the egg, and lastly into the panko crumbs. Transfer into the prepared casserole dish and brush with remaining olive oil.
- Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix together the honey, orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, orange zest, and red chili flakes in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove chicken from the oven, pour the orange glaze over, toss to coat, and return to the oven for an additional 20 minutes, stirring once at the 10-minute mark.
- Serve with rice and broccoli. Enjoy!
