Spicy Orange Chicken Thighs Recipe
Juicy chicken thighs simmer in a zesty orange glaze with a gentle kick of heat. A quick, weeknight-friendly dish that tastes takeout-special.
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Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 tbsp neutral oil for searing
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 0.75 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.75 cup orange juice freshly squeezed if possible
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp light brown sugar packed
- 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1.5 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 0.75 tsp crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1.5 tbsp cornstarch for thickening
- 2 tbsp water to make slurry
- 0.5 cup sliced green onions plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Whisk orange juice, zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.
- Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear chicken thighs until golden on both sides, about 6–8 minutes total.
- Pour in the orange sauce. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 6–8 minutes.
- Stir cornstarch with water. Drizzle slurry into skillet while stirring.
- Simmer until sauce is glossy and thick and chicken is cooked through.
- Fold in green onions. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Rest 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Try swapping red pepper flakes with a squeeze of sriracha for smoother heat. Serve over steamed rice or with roasted broccoli to soak up the sauce. Leftovers keep well up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Spicy Orange Chicken Thighs Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.