Easy Baked Orange Chicken

Hey there, food lovers! 🎉 Today, I’m super excited to share a fantastic recipe with you: Easy Baked Orange Chicken! 🍊 This dish is a game-changer—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, it’s super simple to make, which means more time enjoying and less time cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your friends, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s get cooking!

Try my Orange Chicken Stir Fry recipe.

What you’ll need to make Easy Baked Orange Chicken

Serves: 4

• 2 T olive oil, divided
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 c. cornstarch
• 1/2 c. panko breadcrumbs
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 c. honey, preferably local
• 1/4 c. fresh orange juice (zest before juicing)
• 1/4 c. sugar
• 2 T. soy sauce
• 2 T. rice vinegar
• 2 t. sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 T. orange zest
• 1/2 t. red chili flakes
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked rice and steamed broccoli for serving

Let’s dive into what makes this Easy Baked Orange Chicken so darn tasty! 🍊🍗 First, we’ve got the chicken—boneless, skinless breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces that cook up perfectly juicy.

The coating process is a game-changer: a triple dip in cornstarch, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs gives each piece a crispy, golden crust.

But the real magic is in the glaze. We mix fresh orange juice and zest with local honey, sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for that perfect blend of sweet and tangy. A dash of sesame oil and minced garlic adds a savory depth, while red chili flakes give it a bit of a kick.

Top it all off with some sea salt and black pepper, and you’ve got a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Serve it with fluffy rice and steamed broccoli, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s as easy as it is delicious! 🍚🥦

Try my Chicken, Orange and Walnut Salad recipe.

What you’ll need to do

Prep time: 10 min Cook time: 30 min

Ready to whip up a delicious and simple meal that’ll make your taste buds dance? Let’s get started on this Easy Baked Orange Chicken!

Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Grab a large casserole dish and grease it up with one tablespoon of olive oil. Let’s get that chicken crispy!

Egg, Cornstarch, and Panko Stations:

• Crack an egg into a shallow dish and give it a light beat.
• In another shallow dish, add the cornstarch.
• In a third shallow dish, throw in the panko breadcrumbs.
• Season each with a bit of salt and pepper for that extra flavor kick.

Season the Chicken:

• Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Coating the Chicken:

• Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornstarch first, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the panko crumbs.
• Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared casserole dish and brush them with the remaining olive oil. This is gonna get them nice and golden!

Baking Time:

• Pop the casserole dish into the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Make the Orange Glaze:

• While the chicken is baking, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the honey, orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, orange zest, and red chili flakes.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper. This glaze is gonna be the star of the show!

Glaze and Bake Again:

• Take the chicken out of the oven and pour that delicious orange glaze all over it.
• Toss the chicken to coat it well and pop it back into the oven for another 20 minutes, stirring once at the 10-minute mark to make sure every piece gets that yummy glaze.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve your baked orange chicken with some fluffy rice and steamed broccoli.
• Dig in and enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors!

There you have it! A simple, delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!

Some possible substitution and improvisation ideas for the recipe

Here are some substitution and improvisation ideas to make the Easy Baked Orange Chicken recipe even more versatile and customizable:

Try my Thai Mango Chicken Curry recipe.

Substitutions:

Chicken:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.

Honey:

• Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet flavor.
• Use brown sugar or coconut sugar if you prefer a richer sweetness.

Orange Juice:

• Use lemon juice or lime juice for a citrusy variation.
• Try pineapple juice for a tropical flair.

Soy Sauce:

• Replace with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Use hoisin sauce for a sweeter, thicker glaze.

Rice Vinegar:

• Swap with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if you don’t have rice vinegar.
• Use balsamic vinegar for a deeper, more complex flavor.

Sesame Oil:

• Use olive oil or avocado oil if you don’t have sesame oil on hand.
• Try a few drops of toasted sesame oil for a stronger, nuttier flavor.

Try my Caramelized Onion and Chicken Linguine recipe.

Improvisations:

Veggie Boost:

• Add some bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn to the casserole dish for added crunch and color.
• Stir in some steamed edamame for extra protein.

Spice It Up:

• Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for an extra kick.
• Sprinkle some crushed peanuts or cashews on top for a crunchy, spicy finish.

Herb It Up:

• Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or basil for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Add some grated ginger to the glaze for a zesty twist.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Pair with a fresh, tangy cucumber salad or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

These substitutions and improvisations can help you customize the recipe to your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting! 🎉

Some useful tips for the recipe

Here are some useful tips to make your Easy Baked Orange Chicken turn out perfectly:

Try my Chicken and Tomato Bake recipe.

Useful Tips:

Cutting the Chicken:

• For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures they all cook at the same rate.

Coating Process:

• Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated at each step (cornstarch, egg, and panko). This helps achieve a crispy texture.
• Press the panko breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken pieces to ensure they stick well.

Glaze Preparation:

• Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a big difference in flavor, so try to use fresh oranges if possible.
• Grate the orange zest before juicing the oranges. It’s much easier this way!

Baking Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the casserole dish. If the chicken pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of bake, resulting in less crispy chicken.
• Flip or stir the chicken pieces halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and glazing.

Sauce Thickness:

• If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer the sauce in a small pot for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken. This will reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the glaze set and makes it easier to serve.
• Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture. Microwaving can make the chicken soggy.

Make It Your Own:

• Don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the glaze to suit your taste. Add more honey for a sweeter flavor or more red chili flakes for extra heat.

Following these tips can help ensure your Easy Baked Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite! 🍊🍗🎉

Try my Chicken and Gnocchi Skillet recipe.

Some serving suggestions

Here are some delicious serving options to pair with your Easy Baked Orange Chicken:

Try my Middle Eastern Chicken Traybake recipe.

Classic Pairing:

• Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that tasty orange glaze.
• Steamed Broccoli: Add a side of steamed broccoli for a healthy, crunchy contrast.

Low-Carb Options:

• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice. It’s light and absorbs the flavors wonderfully.
• Zucchini Noodles: Pair with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a fresh and light meal.

Healthy Grains:

• Quinoa: Serve the chicken over cooked quinoa for an extra protein boost.
• Brown Rice: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

Vegetable Sides:

• Stir-Fried Veggies: Make a quick stir-fry with bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and onions for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Roasted Veggies: Serve with a mix of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and carrots.

Salads:

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette can be a perfect complement to the sweet and tangy chicken.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.

Noodles:

• Lo Mein: Serve the chicken over lo mein noodles for an Asian-inspired meal.
• Rice Noodles: Rice noodles are a great gluten-free option that pairs well with the flavors of the orange chicken.

Wraps and Bowls:

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to make wraps with the orange chicken for a fun and healthy option.
• Grain Bowls: Create a grain bowl with farro, barley, or couscous, topped with the orange chicken and your favorite veggies.

Extra Toppings:

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken for added texture and flavor.
• Green Onions: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

These serving options can help you customize your meal to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combination! 🌟🍚🥦

Try my Classic Chicken Cacciatore recipe.

Some storage suggestions

Here are some practical storage options to keep your Easy Baked Orange Chicken fresh and delicious:

Try my Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake recipe.

Refrigeration:

• Airtight Container: Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Separate Sauce: If you want to keep the chicken crispy, store the sauce separately in another container. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Freezing:

• Individual Portions: Divide the chicken into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. This makes it easy to thaw and reheat only what you need.
• Label and Date: Label each container with the date and contents. The chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be aware that this method may make the chicken less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or a splash of water. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Tips for Maintaining Texture:

• Avoid Overcrowding: When storing, make sure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the container to maintain their crispy texture.
• Use Parchment Paper: Place a piece of parchment paper between layers of chicken to prevent them from sticking together.

Reheating the Sauce:

• Stovetop: Reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and bubbling.
• Microwave: Heat the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds, until hot.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Easy Baked Orange Chicken as leftovers without compromising on taste or texture. Happy storing and reheating! 🍗✨

Try my Creamy White Chicken Lasagna recipe.

And there you have it—Easy Baked Orange Chicken that’s ready to steal the show at your dinner table! 😍🍗 I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to serve it with some fluffy rice and steamed broccoli to complete the meal. If you try it out, let me know how it goes in the comments below. Happy cooking, friends! 🍽️🌟

Easy Baked Orange Chicken

🍗✨ Craving something tasty? My Easy Baked Orange Chicken is here to save the day! Juicy chicken baked to perfection with a sweet and spicy orange glaze. Simple, quick, and absolutely mouth-watering. Pair it with rice and broccoli for the ultimate dinner. 🍊😋

Cooking Method: Baked Courses: Dinner Recipe Keys: M Meal Prep

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe CHICKEN

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Cooking Temp: 350  °F Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 12

Ingredients

Servings

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 1 egg, beaten

• ¹⁄₂ cup cornstarch

• ¹⁄₂ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces

• ¹⁄₄ cup honey, preferably local

• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh orange juice (zest before juicing)

• ¹⁄₄ cup sugar

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp orange zest

• ¹⁄₂ tsp red chili flakes

• sea salt and black pepper to taste

• cooked rice and steamed broccoli for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1:

   Preheat the oven to 350° F degrees. Grease a large casserole dish with one  tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Step 2:

   Crack egg into a shallow dish and lightly beat. In a 2^nd shallow dish add cornstarch and to a 3^rd shallow dish add the panko breadcrumbs.

3. Step 3:

   Lightly season each with salt and pepper. Also season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, to taste.

4. Step 4:

   Dredge each chicken piece into the cornstarch, then the egg, and lastly into the panko crumbs. Transfer the coated chicken into the prepared casserole dish and brush with the remaining olive oil.

5. Step 5:

   Transfer the casserole dish with the chicken into the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

6. Step 6:

   In the meantime, in a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, orange zest, and red chili flakes. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Step 7:

   Remove the chicken from the oven and pour the orange glaze over it. Toss to coat the chicken and return into the oven until the chicken is cooked through and glossy, another 20 minutes, stirring once at the 10-minute mark.

8. Step 8:

   Serve the chicken alongside rice and broccoli and enjoy!

   

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