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A close-up of crispy orange chicken pieces glazed with a tangy sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Crispy Orange Chicken Sticks

These crispy orange chicken sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic takeout dish. Tender strips of chicken are breaded and fried to golden perfection, then coated in a zesty homemade orange sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a party appetizer!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water for cornstarch slurry
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic, minced clove
  • Orange zest from 1 orange
  • red pepper flakes Pinch (optional)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Shallow dishes for breading
  • Deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Chicken Preparation
  1. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch wide strips, then season them with salt and black pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika; one for whisked eggs and milk; and one for panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken strip first in the seasoned flour, then in the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Frying the Chicken
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully place chicken strips into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding, for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Remove fried chicken with tongs and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
Orange Sauce and Combining
  1. In a saucepan, whisk together orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using), then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  3. Add the fried chicken sticks to the thickened orange sauce, tossing gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated, and garnish with fresh orange zest before serving immediately.

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don't overcrowd the pan. You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the sauce to your liking. Serve these chicken sticks with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.