Is there a more satisfying meal thanOrange Chicken with Stir-Fry Veggies? I think not. With the best blend of zest, tang, and crunch, this dinner will be a family favorite you’ll make over and over again.

orange chicken on white rice with green broccoli, red onions, orange slices and green onions in a white bowl.

Does anyone else remember hitting up Panda Express and getting their citrusy yetsavory and so-very-addictingorange chicken? It was one of my favorite fast food options years ago. Now Imake fake takeoutfor my family likeGeneral Tso’s chickenandfried wontonsin an effort to save money and eat healthier.

You can serve broccoli, bell peppers, and red onion on the side like I did or swap in any of your favorite veggie sides. Carrots, peas, cauliflower, or mushrooms are other great options. Serve over plain rice or whip up someeasy fried rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This is one of those wonderfulweeknight mealsthat the whole family will look forward to time after time. Kids think it’s fun and delicious, just as adults love the rich flavors.
Make your own takeout meals at home to save money and calories—this will satisfy any craving for Chinese or Asian-inspired food!
This meal can be made ahead on ameal prep dayand stored in the fridge or it can be frozen.

Recipe Ingredients

Chicken –boneless thighs or breasts
Chicken broth
Orange juice & zest –from one fresh orange
White vinegar
Soy sauce –use gluten-free if needed
Brown sugar –either dark or light
Garlic
Cayenne pepper
Cornstarch
Eggs
Oil –peanut or canola oil for frying the chicken pieces
Vegetables –such as broccoli, bell peppers, and onion
Rice –for serving
Toppings –green onions and sesame seeds

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to Make Orange Chicken With Stir-Fry Veggies

Make the orange mixture, using part to marinate the chicken and the rest to make the orange sauce.
Cook the chicken in batches.
Stir fry the veggies.
Combine the chicken, veggies, and sauce, and serve!

Recipe FAQs

What is orange chicken?

Orange chicken is made of chopped boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh that’s battered, fried, and coated with a zesty, caramelized orange and soy sauce concoction. Frying it makes it somewhat crunchy, while the sauce adds an undeniable kick of fruity and salty flavor. It’s a favorite of many families all over the country.

Where did orange chicken originate?

Orange chicken is definitely an Americanized Chinese dish. It’s commonly found in North American Chinese restaurants, and variations of it became ultra famous at both Panda Express and P.F. Chang’s. It’s rarely found in restaurants in China itself, but it’s known as “fresh orange peel chicken” there.

Can orange chicken be frozen?

Absolutely. If you have leftovers, store the chicken and the glaze sauce separately. Keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Warm the chicken in a preheated 350-degree F oven for 15 minutes or until thoroughly reheated. Warm the glaze in a saucepan over medium heat on the stove, stirring until it’s warm enough.

Expert Tips

Serve this tasty orange chicken withany vegetables you have on hand. Great options include broccoli, peppers, onions, carrots, celery, mushrooms, peas, and garlic, of course!
This meal will come together even more quickly if prepped and storedin the fridge for up to 4 days. The chicken can be fried, the sauce can be made, and the vegetables and rice can be cooked. Store it all separately until ready to reheat and serve!
Add the vegetables and rice to the chicken and sauce after everything is cooked for a trueone-pot meal. Leftovers stored together will reheat nicely, too.