Go Back
Delicious gluten-free orange chicken served with fresh vegetables

Gluten-Free Orange Chicken

A delightful twist on the classic takeout favorite, this Gluten-Free Orange Chicken features crispy chicken pieces coated in a zesty orange sauce, perfect for a tangy yet crunchy experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Gluten-Free
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Pat dry for better coating adherence.
  • 3/4 cup gluten-free flour blend (or almond flour/rice flour) Use any gluten-free blend you prefer.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying Choose an oil with a high smoke point.
For the Sauce
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup Depending on your preference for sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasting enhances flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch For thickening the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons water For cornstarch slurry.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, place the gluten-free flour.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into the eggs, then coat thoroughly with the gluten-free flour.
Cooking
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 350-375°F.
  2. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
  3. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
Sauce Preparation
  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ginger. Warm over medium heat.
  2. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and gradually add to the sauce while stirring until thick.
Assembly
  1. Pour the sauce over the fried chicken, tossing gently to coat.
  2. Serve immediately to maintain the best crunch.

Notes

Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Serve with fluffy rice or zoodles, and add steamed broccoli or bell peppers for added crunch.