Name: Baked Orange Chicken: Sweet, Sticky & Delicious Dinner
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 2 Large Eggs, lightly beaten; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or other neutral oil); 1 cup Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice (from 2-3 large oranges); 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar; 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 2 tablespoons Grated Fresh Ginger; 2 cloves Garlic, Minced; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tablespoon Orange Zest; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; 2 tablespoons Water; 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional); Cooked White or Brown Rice (for serving); Sesame Seeds (for garnish); Sliced Green Onions (Scallions, for garnish); Extra Orange Slices or Zest (for garnish)

Baked Orange Chicken is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner, transforming a beloved takeout classic into a healthier, homemade masterpiece that truly shines. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly coated in a vibrant, zesty orange sauce, baked to crispy perfection without the need for deep-frying. This iconic dish, a staple of American Chinese cuisine, has captivated palates for generations with its irresistible blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

People universally adore Orange Chicken for its incredible flavor profile and satisfying texture. The bright, citrusy notes of fresh orange combined with savory soy and a hint of ginger create an explosion of taste that is both comforting and exciting. While traditionally fried, our thoughtful baked approach offers all the deliciousness you crave with a lighter touch, ensuring tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a gloriously sticky, caramelized glaze. This makes our Baked Orange Chicken not just a meal, but a delightful culinary experience that promises to bring smiles to the table.

It’s the perfect balance of convenience and gourmet taste, proving that healthier alternatives can be just as, if not more, delicious. I’m genuinely thrilled to share this recipe with you, guiding you through each simple step to create a dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 lbs (approx. 900g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs over breasts for this recipe because they stay incredibly juicy and tender during baking, making them perfect for our Baked Orange Chicken. You can also use chicken breast, but be mindful of overcooking.
1 cup All-Purpose Flour: This forms the initial dredge for our chicken, providing a light coating that helps the sauce cling beautifully.
1/2 cup Cornstarch: Mixing cornstarch with flour gives the chicken a delightful crispiness without needing to deep-fry. It’s a secret weapon for achieving that satisfying texture in our Baked Orange Chicken.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a foundational aromatic layer to the chicken coating.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder, enhancing the savory profile of the chicken before it even meets the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best for that little kick.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken from the inside out.
2 Large Eggs: Lightly beaten, these act as a binder, helping the flour and cornstarch mixture adhere perfectly to the chicken pieces.
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or other neutral oil): For a light pan-fry to develop a crust before baking.

For the Orange Sauce:

1 cup Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: From about 2-3 large navel oranges. Fresh is absolutely non-negotiable here! It makes all the difference for a vibrant, authentic Baked Orange Chicken flavor.
1/4 cup Rice Vinegar: Provides that essential tanginess and balance to the sweetness of the sauce. Do not confuse it with seasoned rice vinegar, which has added sugar and salt.
1/4 cup Soy Sauce: I use a regular, all-purpose soy sauce. If you prefer, a low-sodium version works just as well. It adds depth and umami to the sauce.
2 tablespoons Grated Fresh Ginger: This brings a wonderful warmth and zing that really elevates the orange chicken experience.
2 cloves Garlic, Minced: The aromatic backbone of our flavorful sauce.
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar: To balance the acidity of the orange juice and vinegar. You can adjust this to your personal sweetness preference.
1 tablespoon Orange Zest: The aromatic oils in the zest are powerful! Make sure to only get the bright orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith. This is key for an intense orange flavor in our Baked Orange Chicken.
2 tablespoons Cornstarch: Our thickening agent. It helps create that luscious, glossy sauce texture we all love.
2 tablespoons Water: To create a cornstarch slurry, which prevents lumps when added to the hot sauce.
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle hint of heat, if you like a little warmth with your sweet and savory.

For Garnish and Serving:

Cooked White or Brown Rice: The perfect absorbent canvas for all that glorious orange sauce.
Sesame Seeds: A beautiful and textural garnish that adds a subtle nutty flavor.
Sliced Green Onions (Scallions): For a pop of color, freshness, and a mild oniony bite.
Extra Orange Slices or Zest: For an additional vibrant presentation.

Instructions:

Phase 1: Preparing the Chicken for Baking

Prepare Your Workstation: Before you even touch the chicken, I find it incredibly helpful to set up a small dredging station. Grab three shallow dishes or bowls. In the first, whisk your two large eggs until lightly beaten. In the second, combine the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly until they are uniformly mixed. The third dish will be for the coated chicken.
Slice the Chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and pat them really dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the coating stick better. Now, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches. Aim for pieces that are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Remember, these are the stars of our Baked Orange Chicken, so take your time!
Dredge the Chicken: Working in batches, dip each piece of chicken first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer the egg-coated chicken piece into the flour and cornstarch mixture. Make sure it’s completely coated on all sides. Gently press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated chicken pieces onto your third, empty dish or a clean plate, making sure not to overcrowd them. Repeat this process until all your chicken is beautifully coated.
Pre-Cook for a Crispy Crust: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You’ll likely need to do this in 2-3 batches. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until the chicken is light golden brown and has a nice crust. The goal here isn’t to cook the chicken through, but rather to develop that crucial crispy exterior that will hold up wonderfully during the baking process and contribute to the fantastic texture of our Baked Orange Chicken. Once lightly browned, transfer the chicken pieces to a clean plate or a wire rack.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step to prevent sticking and ensure our Baked Orange Chicken comes off the pan effortlessly.

Phase 2: Crafting the Zesty Orange Sauce

Zest and Juice Your Oranges: Grab your fresh oranges. Using a fine grater or microplane, carefully zest about 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Be careful to only get the bright orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This zest is where a significant amount of the vibrant orange flavor resides. Then, slice the oranges in half and squeeze out 1 cup of fresh orange juice. I highly recommend using a citrus juicer for efficiency. Strain the juice if you prefer no pulp.
Combine Sauce Ingredients (Part 1): In a medium saucepan, combine the 1 cup fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and if using, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Give everything a good whisk to combine.
Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sugar to fully dissolve. You’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen – that’s the magic of our Baked Orange Chicken sauce coming to life!
Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: While the sauce is simmering, in a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water until no lumps remain. This is your cornstarch slurry. It’s essential to mix cornstarch with cold liquid first to prevent it from clumping when added to hot liquid.
Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce has simmered for a few minutes, give the cornstarch slurry another quick whisk (as cornstarch can settle). Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce in a thin stream, whisking continuously. Continue to whisk as the sauce comes back to a simmer. You’ll notice it will start to thicken quite quickly, becoming glossy and spoon-coating. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to cling to the chicken but still pourable. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Taste and adjust: This is your chance to make it perfect! If you like it sweeter, add a pinch more sugar. If it needs more tang, a tiny splash more rice vinegar or orange juice.

Phase 3: Baking Our Delicious Orange Chicken

Arrange the Chicken: Carefully place the lightly browned chicken pieces onto your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t touching too much to allow for even cooking and browning.
Coat with Sauce (Initial Layer): Take about half of your freshly prepared orange sauce and pour it evenly over the chicken pieces on the baking sheet. Use a spoon or brush to ensure each piece is well coated. We want that beautiful glaze to start forming as our Baked Orange Chicken bakes.
First Bake: Place the baking sheet with the sauced chicken into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 10 minutes. This initial bake allows the sauce to start caramelizing and adhering to the chicken.
Second Coating and Bake: After 10 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs or a spoon, gently turn each piece of chicken to coat it in the sauce that has accumulated on the pan. Now, pour or brush the remaining orange sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly re-coated. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the sauce is wonderfully caramelized and sticky. The exact timing might vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken pieces and your oven. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, but you want a lovely golden-brown, glistening finish for your Baked Orange Chicken.
Rest the Chicken: Once baked to perfection, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the sauce to set even further, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful Baked Orange Chicken.

Phase 4: Finishing Touches and Serving Your Baked Orange Chicken

Garnish and Serve: While the chicken is resting, prepare your garnishes. Spoon your hot, fluffy white or brown rice into serving bowls. Transfer the glorious Baked Orange Chicken pieces from the baking sheet into the bowls, ensuring you get all those delicious, sticky bits of sauce from the pan.
Add Freshness: Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions (scallions). The green onions add a delightful freshness and a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. For an extra touch of visual appeal and aromatic punch, you can add a few extra orange slices or a little more fresh orange zest right before serving.
Enjoy Immediately: This Baked Orange Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is tender and the sauce is warm and sticky. It’s a dish that truly delivers on flavor, and I promise you, the effort is absolutely worth it for this homemade take on a beloved classic. Pair it with some steamed broccoli or a simple side salad for a complete and incredibly satisfying meal. You’ve just created a masterpiece!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious culmination of our culinary journey. After walking through the simple steps, I sincerely hope you’re as excited as I am about this particular recipe. This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a revelation, a vibrant burst of flavor that transforms an ordinary weeknight meal into something truly special. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, ensuring it delivers that irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that we all crave, all while keeping things incredibly approachable for home cooks of any skill level. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without all the fuss and elaborate techniques. The aroma alone, as it bakes to golden perfection, is enough to get anyone’s mouth watering, promising a feast for the senses even before the first bite.

I truly believe this recipe for Baked Orange Chicken is a must-try for so many reasons. First, it’s undeniably delicious – a bold statement, I know, but one I stand by with full confidence. The chicken emerges from the oven wonderfully tender and juicy, bathed in a sticky, glossy sauce that clings to every piece, offering an explosion of citrusy goodness in every mouthful. It’s a delightful departure from the usual fried versions, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing any of the iconic flavor. You get all the comfort and satisfaction of your favorite takeout classic, but with the added peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what ingredients went into it. The prep time is minimal, and the oven does most of the heavy lifting, freeing you up to relax or attend to other tasks while your kitchen fills with the most incredible, enticing aromas. This recipe isn’t just about eating; it’s about the joy of cooking, the warmth of a homemade meal, and the shared pleasure of a truly satisfying dish.

Now, let’s talk about making this incredible meal your own. One of my favorite things about a versatile recipe like this is the endless possibilities for customization and pairing. For serving suggestions, picture this: a generous serving of our amazing Baked Orange Chicken nestled alongside a bed of perfectly steamed jasmine or fluffy white rice. The delicate fragrance of the rice provides a beautiful counterpoint to the bold, zesty chicken. If you’re looking for something with a bit more texture and nutrients, brown rice or even quinoa would make excellent choices. To complete the plate, I highly recommend a side of vibrant, crisp-tender steamed broccoli, snow peas, or green beans. Their freshness and slight crunch cut through the richness of the sauce beautifully, adding essential vitamins and making it a truly balanced meal. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a dash of chopped green onions over the top just before serving adds both visual appeal and a delightful aromatic kick.

Making It Your Own: Delightful Variations and Twists

But don’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your preferences. Feeling a bit adventurous? Here are some variations I encourage you to explore:

Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce while it simmers, or a squirt of sriracha for a more pronounced kick. Start small and taste as you go!
Add More Veggies: For a one-pan wonder, you could toss some chopped bell peppers, onions, or even pineapple chunks in with the chicken during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. They’ll soak up some of that glorious orange sauce and add extra color and flavor.
Different Cuts: While I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their succulence, boneless chicken breasts or even chicken tenders would work wonderfully. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they cook through without drying out.
Zest it Up: For an even more intense citrus punch, grate in some extra orange zest into the sauce. It truly brightens up the entire dish.
Ginger & Garlic Boost: Don’t be shy with the fresh ginger and garlic! A little extra finely minced fresh ginger and garlic can elevate the aromatic depth of the sauce to new heights.

These small tweaks can transform the dish, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your family’s tastes or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. It’s about empowering you to be creative and confident in your kitchen!

So, now it’s your turn! I’ve shared my passion for this incredible Baked Orange Chicken recipe, detailed why I think it’s a game-changer, and offered plenty of ideas for how to serve and customize it. All that’s left is for you to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. I promise you, the reward of that first bite of juicy, tangy, perfectly sauced chicken will be well worth it. There’s something truly magical about bringing a dish like this to life in your own kitchen – the smell of it baking, the anticipation, and finally, the shared enjoyment around the dinner table. It’s an experience that nourishes both body and soul, fostering connections and creating lasting memories.

Don’t be shy! Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you put your own unique spin on it? What were your favorite serving combinations? Did you manage to snap a picture of your culinary masterpiece? Please share your thoughts, your successes, and any creative variations you came up with. Your feedback and personal stories truly inspire me and help our wonderful community of home cooks grow. Thank you for joining me on this delicious adventure; I can’t wait to hear how much you love this recipe. Happy cooking!