Name: Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes; 1 egg white; 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce; 1 tablespoon orange zest; Black pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup cornstarch; 1/3 cup avocado oil; 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup fresh orange juice + 2 tablespoons orange zest; 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 1/2-1 teaspoon chili flakes; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds; Green onions and additional sesame seeds, for serving

Jump to Recipe·4 from 3 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and vibrant color, this Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Tender chunks of chicken get a crispy coating and are then tossed in a luscious, tangy orange sauce that is perfectly balanced by a kick of heat from chili flakes and the nuttiness of toasted sesame seeds. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, making it an irresistible meal to share with family and friends whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl is filled with a dark brown sauce mixed with small bits of garlic or spices, showing a slightly oily texture on the surface; inside the bowl, a shiny metal whisk lies across, partially submerged in the sauce. The background is a white marbled texture with a partially peeled clove of garlic placed to the right of the bowl. The lighting highlights the glossy surface of the sauce and the reflective metal of the whisk photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the fragrant zest to the crispy coating, every component comes together to create the magic in this dish.

1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes: This is the hearty base, providing tender protein that crisps up beautifully.
1 egg white: Helps the coating stick to the chicken for that perfect crispy texture.
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth that enhances overall flavor.
1 tablespoon orange zest: Brings a burst of citrus aroma that brightens every bite.
Black pepper: Offers a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
1/3 cup cornstarch: Ensures the chicken gets that irresistible crispy crust.
1/3 cup avocado oil: A high-smoke point oil that’s perfect for frying and adds a slight buttery note.
1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce to develop richness.
1 cup fresh orange juice + 2 tablespoons zest: Fresh juice gives a natural sweetness and tanginess, while extra zest boosts citrus intensity.
1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with savory depth in the sauce.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that cuts through the richness.
3 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and helps it caramelize nicely.
4 cloves garlic, grated: Gives a punch of aromatic flavor that complements the orange beautifully.
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Adds warmth and a slightly spicy earthiness.
1/2-1 teaspoon chili flakes: Adjust based on your spice preference to create the perfect kick.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds: Provide texture and nutty flavor that’s essential to the dish’s character.
Green onions and sesame seeds, for serving: Fresh and crunchy garnishes that elevate both taste and presentation.

How to Make Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate and Coat the Chicken

Start by tossing your cubed chicken with egg white, tamari or soy sauce, orange zest, and a sprinkle of black pepper. This quick marinade not only infuses each piece with flavor but also primes the chicken for a beautifully crispy coating. Next, dredge the coated chicken pieces in cornstarch, making sure each cube is evenly covered to create that irresistible crunch in the pan.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Orange Sauce

In a separate container, combine the chicken broth, fresh orange juice plus the extra zest, tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Whisk everything thoroughly until the honey dissolves and the sauce ingredients are cohesively blended. This mixture will simmer and reduce to form a flavorful glaze that wraps the chicken in luscious orange goodness.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken until Golden

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches—crowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of crisping it. Fry each batch for about five minutes until every side turns a gorgeous golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside once cooked.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Using the same skillet, add grated garlic, fresh ginger, and chili flakes. These aromatics sizzle for 1 to 2 minutes, releasing their fragrant oils that form the foundational flavor of the sauce. This step is key for developing complexity before the orange sauce joins the party.

Step 5: Simmer the Orange Sauce and Toss the Chicken

Pour the pre-mixed orange sauce into the skillet, turning the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil. Let it reduce and thicken for 3 to 4 minutes until it reaches a syrupy consistency. Return the crispy chicken to the pan and toss gently to coat every piece in the rich, spicy orange glaze. Cook a further 5 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up those wonderful flavors and the sauce to cling beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions

Turn off the heat and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds into the skillet, tossing once again to distribute their nutty crunch. These sesame seeds are the final touch that elevates the dish, adding terrific texture and visual appeal.

How to Serve Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken Recipe

The image shows many small golden-brown pieces of fried chicken with a thick shiny sauce coating them. The chicken pieces are crispy with a textured surface, and the sauce adds a slightly sticky and glossy look. The pieces are close together in a dark pan, and the light shines on them, making the sauce look rich and caramelized. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of extra toasted sesame seeds are the ideal garnishes. The green onions add vibrant color and a mild oniony bite that cuts through the richness, while the sesame seeds add an extra layer of toasty texture that makes each mouthful a delight.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside sautéed bok choy, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Asian slaw to introduce some fresh crunch and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve this spicy orange sesame chicken family-style on a large platter garnished with bright cilantro leaves and thinly sliced red chili rings. Another idea is to serve the chicken atop a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice or spiralized Asian-style noodles for an inventive, lighter twist that still keeps all the exciting flavors intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will continue to soak up the sauce, making each reheated portion even more flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to preserve tenderness and keep the sauce from sticking or burning. Avoid microwaving to maintain the chicken’s crispness as much as possible.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully here, offering a juicier and slightly richer flavor that complements the spicy orange sauce brilliantly. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

What if I don’t have tamari sauce?

You can substitute regular soy sauce if tamari is unavailable. Just keep in mind soy sauce is saltier, so you may want to reduce additional salt elsewhere in the recipe to keep balance.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on how many chili flakes you add. Starting with 1/2 teaspoon provides a mild kick that enhances the citrusy sweetness without overwhelming it. Increase up to 1 teaspoon if you prefer it hotter.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure you use gluten-free tamari or soy sauce and double-check your cornstarch to keep this dish safe for gluten sensitivities or celiac diets.

Is this recipe suitable for prepping in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture and fresh flavor experience.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken Recipe is a joyous celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients coming together in harmony. It’s a dish that brings excitement to the table with its crispy chicken, vibrant orange sauce, and warming spicy notes. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—you’ll find it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting, flavorful meal you’ll want to make again and again.