How to Make Asian Glazed Orange Chicken Fast

If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory all in one bite, you’re going to love this recipe for Asian Glazed Orange Chicken. This dish combines crispy chicken pieces coated in a sticky, vibrant orange sauce that bursts with citrus flavor and subtle spices. Best of all, this recipe is designed for speed without sacrificing flavor—making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious, homemade, and satisfying in no time. Let’s dive into how you can make this Asian Glazed Orange Chicken quickly and easily at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
• Incredible Flavor: The tangy orange glaze combines sweet and savory notes for an irresistible taste.
• Crunchy and Tender: Crispy chicken bites coated in a luscious sauce for a perfect texture contrast.
• Easy to Customize: Adaptable with different proteins or extra veggies to suit your taste or diet.
• Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential to capture the bright, vibrant flavors and perfect texture of Asian Glazed Orange Chicken. Each component plays a key role—from the crispy coating on the chicken to the glossy, citrusy sauce that brings it all together.

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-size chunks for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Cornstarch: This helps create a crispy coating without the heaviness of flour.
• Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide that bright, authentic orange flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth and umami to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: For natural, rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the glaze.
• Garlic and Ginger: Classic aromatics that elevate the dish with warmth and zing.
• Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar: Offers a touch of acidity to enhance the glaze’s brightness.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle nutty undertone to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but perfect if you like a gentle kick.
• Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: For garnish, adding freshness and crunch.

Variations for Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

One of the best things about this Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is how easy it is to tweak the recipe to fit your cravings or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment!

• Protein Swap: Use tofu, shrimp, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian or pescatarian twist.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for different sweetness profiles.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add more chili flakes or Sriracha to turn up the heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free cornstarch alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.

How to Make Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry to ensure the coating sticks well. Toss the chicken chunks in cornstarch until evenly coated, setting them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Orange Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you want a little spice. This glaze is the heart of the dish, bursting with bright and savory flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a generous layer of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces and cook them until golden and crisp on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Combine and Glaze

Pour the orange glaze into the same skillet, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Return the crispy chicken to the pan and toss gently to coat every piece in that shiny, flavorful sauce, coating the chicken evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat, then sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top for a fresh finish and added texture. Serve immediately while the glaze is warm and sticky.

Pro Tips for Making Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

• Dry Chicken First: Pat the chicken dry to get a better, crunchier coating when frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to maintain crispiness instead of steaming.
• Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice truly makes a flavorful difference compared to bottled.
• Control Sweetness: Adjust honey or sugar according to your sweetness preference for a balanced glaze.
• Keep Sauce Warm: Toss the chicken with the glaze off the heat to keep the sauce glossy and prevent burning.

How to Serve Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Garnishes

Brighten up your presentation with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds—both add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that perfectly complements the sticky sauce.

Side Dishes

Serve Asian Glazed Orange Chicken with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a classic pairing, or balance it with stir-fried vegetables or a crisp Asian slaw to add freshness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb twist, or wrap it in lettuce cups with a drizzle of extra glaze for a fun finger food option perfect for parties or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Asian Glazed Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will retain its flavor, although the coating may soften.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—just place cooled chicken and sauce portions in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. Add a splash of water or extra orange glaze if the sauce gets too thick while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great alternative that stays tender and succulent in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How spicy is Asian Glazed Orange Chicken?

The recipe is typically mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding or reducing red pepper flakes or including a dash of Sriracha.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier twist, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F until golden and crispy, about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The glaze can be added after baking.

What’s the best way to get a thick glaze?

Simmer the sauce on medium-low heat until it reduces by about half and thickens slightly; cornstarch in the mixture helps achieve that perfect sticky texture.

Final Thoughts

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat, yet comes together so quickly that it’s perfect for any weeknight. The bright orange glaze, crispy chicken, and the balance of sweet and savory flavors will make it a new favorite in your cooking rotation. Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality dinner right at home!

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