Orange Sesame Chicken

Try our fuss-free Orange Sesame Chicken recipe! Tender chicken breast halves are cooked to juicy perfection and coated in a mouthwatering sauce featuring tangy orange marmalade, soy sauce, and a touch of Sriracha for a hint of heat. Sprinkled with sesame seeds for that extra crunch, it’s a dish bursting with flavor that kids love.

This orange sesame chicken recipe will have the whole family excited for dinner. Plus, I am sharing what to make with orange chicken (keep scrolling!). For more delicious chicken recipes, be sure to check out Garlic Parmesan Risotto with Chicken, Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, and BBQ Chicken Wings.

Homemade Orange Chicken

Skip the takeout and bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant right into your kitchen with this easy orange chicken recipe! It’s crispy, juicy and coated in an orange sauce, made right at home. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it is made with simple, fresh ingredients you can feel good about when serving to your family. Plus, you can have it ready in less than it takes for delivery. This homemade version is a game-changer that will have your family begging for seconds!

Ingredients & Variations

• Chicken broth
• Orange marmalade – apricot preserves are a great substitute that offer a similar sweetness and thickness.
• Soy sauce – tamari is a gluten-free option with a similar savory flavor, making it a perfect 1:1 substitute. Coconut aminos would be a soy-free, lower in sodium option.
• Mirin or rice wine vinegar – apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are suitable alternatives
• Garlic and ginger powder
• Sriracha – adjust the amount based on the level of heat your family enjoys. Omit if you prefer minimal heat.
• Cornstarch – essential to achieve the desired crispy exterior of the chicken chunks
• Coconut oil
• Chicken breast cut in half – this will speed up the cooking process and ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Continue to cook until the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165 degrees F.
• Salt and pepper
• Sesame seeds

How To Make Orange Chicken

STEP ONE: Make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, ginger powder, Sriracha, and cornstarch.

The orange chicken sauce has the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Not only is this sauce delicious for orange chicken, but it also makes a delicious sauce for baked salmon and pork chops.

STEP TWO: Cook the chicken. Start by generously seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. You will want to flip the chicken to season both sides. Next, heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is shimmering and hot, but not smoking.

Carefully, add the chicken and cook until cooked through or an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. It is important to use a sauté pan that is large enough to hold the chicken without overcrowding the pan. This will help ensure the chicken cooks evenly.

Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest for a minute. This will help the chicken to stay moist and juicy. Finally, dice the chicken into chunks.

STEP THREE: Combine. Pour the sauce into the hot pan and cook until it is thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and cook the sauce over medium heat. Then, stir in the sesame seeds.

STEP FOUR: Serve. Toss the chicken pieces with the sauce or drizzle the sauce over the chicken then serve with cooked rice and broccoli.

What To Make With Orange Chicken

For options beyond rice and broccoli, here are some delicious ideas to pair with orange sesame chicken:

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, onions and mushrooms make the ideal medley when sauteed with garlic and a touch of soy sauce.
• Lo Mein Noodles: swap the rice with noodles seasoned with sesame oil and soy sauce.
• Cauliflower rice: for a lighter, low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes a delicious alternative that pairs extremely well with the orange sauce.
• Egg Rolls: we personally love a crispy egg roll with this dinner meal. The rolls are also great for dipping in extra orange sauce.
• Edamame: keep things easy by serving alongside steamed edamame seasoned with kosher salt
• Potstickers: enjoy orange chicken with another favorite takeout side such as potstickers or dumplings.

Recipe Notes & Helpful Tips

• If you like excess sauce, double the sauce recipe to toss half with the chicken and the other half to use as dipping sauce.
• For young kids that may be hesitant to try a new recipe, cook the chicken as directed then serve the sauce on the side for a dipping option.
• Make the sauce spicier by adding more sriracha to the sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on the dish for garnish.
• For a sweeter version, add 1-2 Tablespoons of brown sugar to the orange sauce mixture.
• The sesame seeds add the perfect amount of crunch but can be omitted to meet dietary needs or preferences.
• Use chicken tenderloins or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, making sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Meal Prep Orange Chicken

1. Cook as directed then cool completely. The chicken should cool to room temperature before storing. Adding to a covered container while still hot can cause the chicken to become soggy.
2. Once cool, transfer to an airtight container with any excess sauce in a separate container. Store chicken and sauce in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
3. For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy texture. It can be microwaved; however, you risk losing the crispiness.

Is this recipe dairy free? Gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is both dairy free and gluten free when gluten-free soy sauce is used. Always verify ingredients on all labels to ensure there are no hidden sources of gluten.

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