Crispy Orange Chicken Bites

When you’re craving something crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, Crispy Orange Chicken Bites are your go-to dish. This easy-to-make recipe brings together succulent chicken coated in a golden, crunchy exterior, complemented by a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The result? A mouthwatering meal that works for everything from family dinners to special gatherings.

In this recipe, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with the bright citrus flavor of orange juice elevating the dish. Whether you choose to serve these crispy chicken bites as a main course or a fun party snack, they are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

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What is Crispy Orange Chicken Bites?

Crispy Orange Chicken Bites are small pieces of chicken breast that are battered and fried to perfection, then coated in a flavorful orange sauce. The key to this dish is its crispy texture, achieved through a combination of cornstarch and flour for the coating. The orange sauce brings a fresh and vibrant twist, making the crispy chicken bites a delight for both the eyes and the palate.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it as a comforting dinner or as an appetizer at parties. Additionally, its balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring it’s always a favorite choice for both kids and adults alike.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

Before you dive into this recipe, it’s important to gather a few essential tools that will help you achieve the perfect crispy chicken bites.

• Frying Pan or Skillet: A deep pan is essential for frying the chicken pieces. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.
• Mixing Bowls: You will need separate bowls for the dry ingredients, eggs, and the orange sauce.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: These will be useful for safely removing the chicken from the hot oil without making a mess.
• Saucepan: A small saucepan is necessary for preparing the orange sauce.
• Paper Towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried chicken.

These tools will help you prepare the crispy chicken and sauce with ease, making your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Orange Chicken Bites

To make this recipe, you will need a few simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Bites:

• Chicken Breasts: The main protein, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Cornstarch: The key to achieving a crispy coating.
• Eggs: To help the coating stick to the chicken.
• All-Purpose Flour: To give the chicken a golden crunch.
• Salt and Pepper: For basic seasoning.
• Oil: Used for frying. Choose vegetable or canola oil for high-heat frying.

For the Orange Sauce:

• Fresh Orange Juice: For that fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Orange Zest: Adds an aromatic touch.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the orange juice.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and a savory umami flavor.
• Vinegar: Provides a bit of tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• Garlic Powder and Ginger Powder: These spices round out the flavors and add warmth.
• Cornstarch: Mixed with water to thicken the sauce.

For Garnish:

• Orange Slices: To add a pop of color and a fresh flavor burst.
• Cooked Rice: To serve the chicken over, making it a more filling meal.

How to Make Crispy Orange Chicken Bites

This recipe is fairly easy to prepare and will only take about 30-40 minutes to make. Here’s how you can prepare the dish:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up your dredging station with cornstarch in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and flour in a third bowl. Coat each chicken piece first in cornstarch, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in flour. This ensures a crisp and golden exterior.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sugar is dissolved, add the cornstarch and water mixture to thicken the sauce. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
4. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Place the fried chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat the pieces evenly. The sauce will cling to the crispy coating, creating a deliciously tangy glaze.
5. Serve: Serve the crispy orange chicken bites over a bed of cooked rice, garnishing with fresh orange slices. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Fry in Batches: To avoid overcrowding, fry the chicken in small batches. This helps the chicken pieces cook evenly and stay crispy.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on how sweet or tangy you like your sauce, you can adjust the sugar content. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by half.
• Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal for the best flavor. Store-bought juice can be used, but it may not have the same fresh citrusy kick.
• Add Heat: For a spicy twist, you can add red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Crispy Orange Chicken Bites are best enjoyed fresh, but you can still store them for later use if necessary. Here’s how to keep them at their best:

Storing:

• In the Refrigerator: Once cooled, place the chicken bites in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the crispy coating may lose its crunch over time.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• In the Oven: To bring back some of the crispy texture, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken bites on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• In the Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, it’s a great way to reheat the chicken and restore its crispy texture. Simply air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• In the Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can make the coating soggy. If this is your only option, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate with a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture. Heat for 1-2 minutes, but the crispiness will be lost.

These methods will help you keep your leftovers as delicious as possible, but for the best experience, try to enjoy the chicken fresh right after cooking.

Crispy Orange Chicken Bites are a perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating your family to something special, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Next time you’re craving something crispy, remember this recipe—it’s simple to make, highly customizable, and always a crowd favorite. Enjoy your culinary adventure with crispy orange chicken bites!