Name: Crispy Double Crunch Orange Chicken for Family Nights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (may also use thighs for added juiciness); 2 pcs eggs (for binding and crispy coating); 4 tbsp water (for egg wash); 2 cups flour (gluten-free alternatives can be used); 4 tsp salt and black pepper (equal parts for seasoning); 3 tbsp ground ginger (adds warmth and savoriness); 1 tbsp freshly ground nutmeg (use sparingly due to potency); 2 tsp ground thyme and sage (provides herbaceous notes); 2 tbsp paprika (adds color and mild pepper flavor); 1 tsp cayenne pepper (for added heat; can substitute with mild chili powder); 3 cloves minced garlic (adds aromatic depth); 3 cups orange juice (for sweetness; fresh-squeezed recommended); 1 small finely grated zest of orange (intensifies flavor); 3/4 cup honey (for sweetness balance; can substitute with agave syrup); 1/3 cup rice wine vinegar (adds tanginess; can replace with apple cider vinegar); 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (freshly ground preferred); 1 tsp chili flakes (or 2 tsp crushed chili paste; adjust to spice preference); 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp corn starch (for thickening; dissolve in water first); 1/4 cup water (to mix with cornstarch); 3 tbsp peanut oil (or other vegetable oil for frying); Canola oil for frying (maintain high temperature for even cooking)

The sizzle of chicken frying in hot oil always fills me with excitement, especially when I know a delicious meal is on the horizon. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on a classic: the Double Crunch Orange Chicken. This easy weeknight dinner not only delivers a satisfying crunch but also envelops tender chicken in a sweet and spicy orange glaze that will have your family coming back for seconds. What I love about this dish is its undeniable appeal—it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s sure to impress. Plus, its quick prep means you can savor the citrusy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is Double Crunch Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Irresistible Crunch: The Double Crunch Orange Chicken offers a delightful crispy texture that everyone loves, making it perfect for family dinners.

Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy orange sauce, coupled with a hint of spice, creates a flavor profile that’s satisfying and exciting.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, ideal for busy weeknights.

Family-Favorite Appeal: It’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters, ensuring seconds are always on the table.

Versatile Options: You can easily personalize this recipe by swapping the orange juice with lemon or lime for different citrus notes. For a lighter twist, try baking the chicken instead of frying!

Pair your Double Crunch Orange Chicken with stir-fried veggies or serve it over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken for another quick dinner idea that your family will adore!

Double Crunch Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts – Provides the main protein source; may also use thighs for added juiciness.
2 eggs – Creates a binding layer; important for crispy coating.
4 tbsp water – Used for the egg wash.
2 cups flour – For dredging; gluten-free alternatives can be used.
4 tsp salt and black pepper – Equal parts for seasoning the flour mix.
3 tbsp ground ginger – Adds warmth and savoriness.
1 tbsp freshly ground nutmeg – For depth; use sparingly as it is potent.
2 tsp ground thyme and sage – Provide herbaceous notes, enhancing the chicken flavor.
2 tbsp paprika – Adds color and a mild pepper flavor.
1 tsp cayenne pepper – For added heat; substitute with less spicy chili powder if desired.

For the Sauce

3 cloves minced garlic – Adds aromatic depth to the sauce; fresh garlic enhances the flavor.
3 cups orange juice – Provides sweetness and acidity; for best flavor, use fresh-squeezed or organic unwaxed oranges.
Finely grated zest of one small orange – Intensifies the orange flavor in the sauce.
3/4 cup honey – Sweetness to balance the orange’s acidity; can substitute with agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
1/3 cup rice wine vinegar – Adds tanginess; can replace with apple cider vinegar if unavailable.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper – For seasoning; freshly ground offers better flavor.
1 tsp chili flakes (or 2 tsp crushed chili paste) – Adds heat; adjust based on preferred spice level. Omit for a mild dish.
1 1/2 to 2 rounded tbsp corn starch – For thickening the sauce; dissolve in water before adding to ensure smoothness.
1/4 cup water – To mix with cornstarch for sauce thickening.

For Frying

3 tbsp peanut oil (or other vegetable oil) – For frying chicken; peanut oil has a high smoke point and adds flavor.
Canola oil for frying – High smoke point makes it ideal for frying chicken; maintain oil temperature to ensure even cooking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Step 1: Flatten the Chicken
Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to an even 1/2 inch thickness. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until uniform. This ensures even cooking and tenderness, resulting in perfectly juicy Double Crunch Orange Chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredge
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, ground ginger, freshly ground nutmeg, thyme, sage, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the chicken. Set aside some extra dredge for future use; it comes in handy for another round of crispy chicken.

Step 3: Create the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and 4 tablespoons of water until well combined. This egg wash is crucial for helping the seasoned flour stick to the chicken, ensuring a delightful crunch. Place this bowl next to your dredge for easy access during the coating process.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Season both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip each piece into the seasoned flour, then into the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mixture for a crispy outer layer. Make sure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated for the ultimate crunch when frying.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1/2 inch of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat (approximately 4.5 on a scale of 10). Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden-brown color and are delightfully crispy.

Step 6: Drain the Chicken
Once cooked, transfer the crispy chicken pieces to a wire rack set over paper towels. This helps drain excess oil, allowing the Double Crunch Orange Chicken to remain crunchy without becoming soggy. While the chicken drains, you can prepare the luscious orange sauce.

Step 7: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of peanut oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the orange juice, zest, honey, rice wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens to a glossy finish. This rich sauce will be the perfect complement to your crispy Double Crunch Orange Chicken.

Step 9: Coat and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, take the fried chicken pieces and coat them generously in the orange sauce. Toss them gently to ensure every bite is enveloped in flavor. Serve the Double Crunch Orange Chicken over a bed of rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that your family will adore.

What to Serve with Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Creating a delightful meal is easy when you have the right sides to complement your main dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the tangy orange sauce beautifully, providing a soft and fluffy balance to the crispy chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch, enhancing the meal both in flavor and nutrition.
Creamy Coconut Curry Noodles: The rich and creamy coconut flavor in these noodles pairs perfectly with the zesty chicken, creating a harmonious contrast.
Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, a cool cucumber salad adds a lovely crunch and helps balance the rich flavors of the orange chicken.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter bring an earthy taste and vibrant color to your plate, complementing the citrusy tones of the chicken.
Sweet and Sticky Asian Pineapple Cake: Finish your meal on a sweet note with this cake. The tropical flavors of pineapple enhance the dish’s zestiness, ensuring your meal is memorable.

Let these side dishes elevate your Double Crunch Orange Chicken experience, turning a simple dinner into a culinary celebration!

Expert Tips for Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature while frying to avoid soggy chicken; too low, and it won’t crisp up properly.
Flatten Evenly: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tenderness; this is key for achieving that perfect crunch.
Garlic Caution: Watch the garlic while sautéing—do not let it brown, as it can become bitter instead of enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Coating Consistency: Ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with the flour mixture for the ultimate crispy texture in your Double Crunch Orange Chicken.
Storage Tips: Use leftover dredge mix for another chicken batch or store in the freezer for future meals; it saves time and reduces waste.

Make Ahead Options

These Double Crunch Orange Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking time-saving convenience! You can marinate and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the orange sauce up to 3 days ahead, allowing the rich flavors to meld in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the chicken until golden brown and toss it in the sauce before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time, without compromising on taste or quality!

Double Crunch Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these variations and make this dish truly your own.

Citrus Swap: Replace orange juice with lemon or lime for a zesty twist that brightens the dish.
Honey Alternative: Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetness without compromising flavor.
Baked Option: For a healthier take, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

For those who enjoy a little extra spice, consider adding a touch of chipotle powder to the dredge mix. It brings a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweet sauce.

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispy, gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with dried herbs like oregano or dill in the dredge for a unique twist that adds depth to the flavor profile.

You can also pair this dish with soy sauce or hoisin sauce to dip on the side for a savory contrast—perfect for drizzling over steamed rice or noodles.

Extra Crunch: Add crushed cornflakes or panko bread crumbs to the flour mixture for an even crispier texture.

Once dinner’s served, don’t forget to check out my Chicken BLT Crunchwrap for another family meal that dazzles!

How to Store and Freeze Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Double Crunch Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in portions, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore its crispiness.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Double Crunch Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best oranges for the sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges for your sauce, look for firm, heavy oranges with a smooth, bright skin. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe. Freshly squeezed juice from organic unwaxed oranges offers the best flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Double Crunch Orange Chicken?
To maintain the quality of your dish, store any leftover Double Crunch Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave to help retain that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze the Double Crunch Orange Chicken?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Simply let it cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What should I do if the breading on my chicken isn’t crispy?
Very! If the coating isn’t crispy, there are a few common issues to check. First, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; it should shimmer but not smoke. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and let it drain on a wire rack after frying to keep the crunch intact.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, there are several common allergens to be aware of. This recipe contains eggs, flour (which may contain gluten), and honey. If you’re preparing the dish for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour and a suitable honey alternative if needed. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens!