Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken

BY

November 29, 2025

Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken with citrus glaze

Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken brings together crispy golden chicken and a sticky, tangy-sweet sauce made from fresh orange juice, honey, and a hint of garlic. It’s a comforting dish that balances brightness and depth, perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet, tangy, and perfectly sticky glaze.
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • No deep fryer required bake or pan-sear instead.
  • Delicious with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds and chopped green onions

Optional Swaps: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or maple syrup instead of honey.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet; cook chicken until lightly browned on all sides.
  3. In a saucepan, whisk orange juice, zest, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
  4. Simmer the mixture for 5–6 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add chicken to the pan and toss until evenly coated in the sweet orange glaze.
  6. Serve warm and sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Noodles or quinoa bowls
  • Chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Healthier option: Air fry or bake the chicken instead of frying.
  • Spicy twist: Add red chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze.
  • Meal prep: Double the sauce it keeps beautifully for leftovers.

FAQs

1. What is Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken made of?
It’s made with tender chicken pieces coated in a bright glaze of orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a sweet-tangy balance.

2. Can I make Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken without deep frying?
Yes! Pan-searing or baking the chicken works beautifully and keeps the texture crisp without extra oil.

3. What can I serve with Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or sautéed veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.

4. How do I store and reheat Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the glaze.

Conclusion

This Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. With its glossy sauce and irresistible aroma, it’s the perfect dish to brighten any meal simple, comforting, and wonderfully citrusy.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken with citrus glaze

Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken with citrus-honey sauce in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless chicken breast

2 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp olive oil

½ cup orange juice

1 tbsp orange zest

2 tbsp honey

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

½ tsp ginger

Salt, pepper, sesame seeds


Instructions

1. Toss chicken with cornstarch and seasoning.

2. Pan-sear until golden.

3. Whisk sauce ingredients in saucepan and simmer.

4. Add chicken, coat in glaze.

5. Serve hot with rice and garnish with sesame seeds.

Notes

Air fry or bake for a lighter version.

Add red pepper flakes for spice.

Double the sauce for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star