Print

Crispy Sesame Orange Chicken

crispy sesame orange chicken - featured image

A quick and easy homemade recipe featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a vibrant orange glaze with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and nuttiness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil recommended)
  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • Thinly sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up coating stations: whisk eggs in one bowl; combine flour and cornstarch in another.
  3. Dip each chicken piece first in egg, then dredge thoroughly in flour mixture. Repeat for a double coating.
  4. Pour about 2 inches of oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high until 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes each, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on wire rack or paper towels.
  6. While frying, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Whisk cornstarch slurry into sauce and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in toasted sesame oil.
  8. Place fried chicken in a large bowl and toss gently with warm orange sauce to coat evenly.
  9. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or preferred sides.

Notes

Dry chicken well before coating for crispiness. Double dredging creates extra crunch. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt chicken. Toss chicken in warm (not hot) sauce to keep coating crisp. Sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken, orange chicken, sesame chicken, homemade orange chicken, easy dinner, fried chicken, Asian sauce, weeknight meal