Baked Orange Chicken Delight
Sticky-sweet baked orange chicken with a bright citrus glaze and just a hint of heat. Crispy edges, tender bites, no deep fryer needed.
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Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 0.5 cup cornstarch for coating
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour for coating
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil plus more for the pan
- 0.75 cup orange juice preferably fresh
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar
- 0.33 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes reduce for less heat
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil for flavor
- 2 tbsp sliced green onions for garnish
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat oven to 425°F. Lightly oil a large rimmed baking sheet.
- Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in chicken to coat evenly.
- Drizzle coated chicken with vegetable oil and toss again to lightly moisten the coating.
- Spread chicken in a single layer on the sheet. Bake 15 minutes, then flip pieces.
- Bake 8–10 minutes more, until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, whisk orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, red pepper, and sesame oil in a saucepan.
- Bring sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Cook 4–6 minutes, stirring, until glossy and slightly thickened.
- Transfer hot chicken to a bowl, pour sauce over, and toss to coat. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
Variation: Add steamed broccoli florets or snap peas to the bowl before tossing with sauce for a veggie boost. For extra-crispy edges, broil the sauced chicken on the top rack for 1–2 minutes, watching closely. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet to revive the glaze.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Baked Orange Chicken Delight flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.