I’m so excited to share this honey orange chicken recipe with you all. It’s a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. The dish originated from Chinese cuisine, where honey is used as a sweetener and orange marmalade adds a tangy flavor.
The combination of these two ingredients creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory that will leave you craving for more. The key to making this dish is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the chicken. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cut into bite-sized pieces.
This makes it easier to cook them evenly and ensures that they’re tender and juicy. One of the things I love about this recipe is the ease of preparation. It’s quick to make, and the ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets.
Simply marinate the chicken in a mixture of honey, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, then bake it in the oven until it’s cooked through. When I serve this dish to my family, they always ask for seconds. The combination of flavors is so delicious that it’s hard to resist going back for more.
Plus, it’s healthy too! The honey provides antioxidants, while the orange marmalade adds a boost of vitamin C.
Honey Orange Chicken
4.6 from 1771 votes
Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sticky, sweet and tangy honey orange sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
👨🍳Directions
1In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
4Remove chicken and set aside.
5In the same skillet, combine honey, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
6Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, and cook for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
7Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and continue to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, until the sauce is glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
8Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
9Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is bubbly and clings to the chicken.
10Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice, garnished with orange zest or sliced green onions if desired.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat. You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Watch Video Of How Honey Orange Chicken Works
Store leftover honey orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or orange juice to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave it in thirty second intervals stirring in between. For serving, I like to sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for extra color and crunch.
This recipe works for family gatherings because it is easy to double and everyone loves the sweet citrus flavor. It travels well for potlucks too just keep the sauce separate until serving.
Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just your household this honey orange chicken always delivers a satisfying meal that feels special without a lot of fuss.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Orange Chicken
Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
A: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They are easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook evenly.
Q: Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
A: While you can substitute the honey with other sweeteners, keep in mind that honey has a distinct flavor that pairs well with the orange marmalade. If you choose to substitute it, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Q: How do I store leftover honey orange chicken?
A: You can store leftover honey orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative. Also, be sure to check the ingredients of the orange marmalade for gluten content.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat honey orange chicken?
A: To reheat honey orange chicken, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
This slow-cooked beef shoulder roast is tender and flavorful, perfect for a hearty family meal. The crock pot does all the work, infusing the beef with rich fla…
A moist and tender pumpkin sheet cake topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. This easy dessert is perfect for fall gatherings and feeds a crowd. The warm s…
A moist and decadent butter cake perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe is easy to follow and results in a rich, buttery flavor that is sure to impress….
This classic Jewish Chicken Matzo Ball Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken, savory broth, and light, fluffy matzo b…
