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Sticky Orange Chicken Thighs Better Than Takeout

A close-up of crispy chicken pieces coated in a thick, glossy sauce, representing Sticky Orange Chicken Thighs Better Than Takeout.
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Make flavorful, sticky orange chicken using chicken thighs. This recipe produces a thick glaze that coats the meat well, surpassing standard takeout quality.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for slurry)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup cornstarch, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cold water and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a slurry.
  5. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens significantly, about 1-2 minutes. This is your sticky glaze.
  6. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all pieces thoroughly with the thick orange sauce.
  7. Cook for 1 minute more until the chicken is fully glazed and hot. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly dust the coated chicken pieces with flour instead of cornstarch before frying.
  • Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor in the sauce.
  • If you prefer a spicier glaze, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes when adding the ginger and garlic.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerykings.com/sticky-orange-chicken-thighs-better-than-takeout/