Orange Glazed Chicken
Golden bite-size chicken coated in a sticky orange sauce with zest, soy, garlic, and ginger.
Orange Glazed Chicken has crisp-edged chicken pieces coated in a bright, glossy orange, soy, garlic, and ginger sauce. The stovetop method keeps the cooking and sauce-building in one pan.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
For the Orange Sauce
- 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Serving
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Cooked rice
Substitutions
- For Orange Glazed Chicken, Use breast or thigh meat cut into equal bite-size pieces so the orange-glazed chicken cooks evenly; every piece should reach 165°F.
- Honey and maple syrup can usually be exchanged in the same amount, although the flavor and moisture will change slightly.
Instructions
Step 1: Coat the chicken
Season chicken and toss with cornstarch until each piece is lightly coated.

Step 2: Brown
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, turning until browned and the thickest pieces reach 165°F.

Step 3: Mix the sauce
Whisk orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Step 4: Glaze
Pour sauce into the empty skillet and simmer 3 minutes. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy.

Step 5: Combine
Return chicken to the pan and toss for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

How to Store Leftovers
Cool Orange Glazed Chicken promptly, cover it, and refrigerate within 2 hours. Use leftovers within 3 to 4 days and store fresh or crisp components separately.
How to Reheat
Reheat Orange Glazed Chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of its sauce or water only when needed and stop once hot.
What to Serve With It
- Rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- A green salad
- Crusty bread for the sauce
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- For Orange Glazed Chicken, crowding the pan and steaming the ingredients.
- For Orange Glazed Chicken, adding sugar, garlic, or dairy over excessive heat.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know the poultry in Orange Glazed Chicken is done?
Check the thickest piece for 165°F and use the recipe’s visual cue: Cook the chicken in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, turning until browned and the thickest pieces reach 165°F.
What substitution works well in Orange Glazed Chicken?
Use breast or thigh meat cut into equal bite-size pieces so the orange-glazed chicken cooks evenly; every piece should reach 165°F.
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