Sticky Orange Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a luscious, sticky sauce clinging to tender chicken, this recipe for Sticky Orange Chicken is your new go-to. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy, flavorful bites, this dish comes together quickly with a simple sauce made from fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Sticky Orange Chicken delivers on flavor and satisfaction every single time.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Sticky Orange Chicken stands out because it combines the bright freshness of orange with the deep umami of soy sauce and the gentle heat from red pepper flakes. The chicken thighs stay tender and juicy thanks to their higher fat content compared to breasts, and the sauce thickens beautifully with a cornstarch slurry, creating that irresistible sticky coating. Plus, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you love dishes like Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll appreciate this recipe’s unique citrus twist. The balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes keeps your taste buds engaged, and garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions adds a lovely crunch and freshness that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium for less saltiness)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

How To Make Sticky Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up the delicious sauce better. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels — removing excess moisture helps the chicken brown nicely in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved. This mixture will provide the sweet and tangy base for your Sticky Orange Chicken sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and season with black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to release their fragrant aromas without burning.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Thicken

Pour the orange juice mixture into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Bring it to a gentle simmer. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth, then slowly pour this slurry into the sauce while stirring continuously. This will thicken the sauce quickly and give it that sticky texture.

Step 6: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it well to coat every piece in the glossy orange sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken and intensify in flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Sticky Orange Chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not drying the chicken before cooking – this can prevent it from browning properly.
• Adding the cornstarch slurry too quickly or all at once – this can cause lumps in the sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken – chicken thighs cook relatively fast; overcooking results in dry meat.
• Skipping the garlic and ginger sauté – these aromatics add essential depth to the sauce.
• Using pre-made orange juice with added sugars or preservatives – fresh juice yields the best flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though thighs stay juicier.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a slightly different sweetness profile.
• Omit red pepper flakes for a milder dish or increase for more heat.
• For a nutty twist, stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter into the sauce before thickening.

How to Store Leftovers

Place any leftover Sticky Orange Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or orange juice if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful with this cooking method. If you use breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster.

Is there a substitute for cornstarch?

Yes, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch in equal amounts as a thickener. Flour can also be used, but it may create a slightly different texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the sauce gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

How do I get the sauce extra sticky?

Be sure to add the cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring to avoid lumps. Cooking the sauce until it thickens properly before tossing the chicken helps achieve that perfect sticky coating.

Conclusion

Sticky Orange Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a luscious, sticky sauce coating tender chicken thighs. This recipe is easy to whip up, packed with fresh ingredients, and versatile enough to customize to your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish will quickly become part of your regular meal rotation. Serve it alongside steamed rice and your favorite veggies for a complete dinner that’s bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to try it alongside other beloved chicken recipes like Chicken Teriyaki With Marinade for a delicious Asian-inspired feast. Enjoy!

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