Name: Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 3 tbsp oil (for frying); 1/2 cup orange juice (preferably fresh); 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry); 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp orange zest; Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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This Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner is about to become your new weeknight superstar. Picture golden, crispy chicken bites tossed in a sticky, sweet-tangy orange glaze that’s just the right balance of zesty and comforting. Better yet, you get all the flavors of classic takeout, but with wholesome, gluten-free ingredients that make everyone at the table happy. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just want a cleaner, homemade version of this favorite, this recipe brings serious flavor with minimal fuss—there’s honestly nothing more satisfying than digging into a plate of orange chicken you made yourself!

Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is how every ingredient plays its part—nothing is extra, and each element builds incredible taste, texture, and color. These pantry staples and a few fresh accents are all you need to whip up a Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner that rivals your favorite restaurant version.

Chicken: Use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs for juicy, tender bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
Cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for getting chicken ultra-crispy without gluten.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Adds extra crunch and helps the coating stick for that real-deal texture.
Eggs: Provide just the right binding so every piece gets coated perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken right from the start.
Oil for Frying: A neutral oil like avocado or canola works best for crisping without overpowering.
Orange Juice: Fresh is best for vibrant citrus flavor—the soul of the sauce!
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce or Tamari: Brings in the umami depth while keeping the sauce gluten-free.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Lends natural sweetness and a glossy finish to the glaze.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens every bite.
Cornstarch Slurry: Thickens the sauce to that perfect, clingy consistency.
Fresh Ginger: Offers a warm, peppery kick—don’t skip it!
Garlic Cloves: For that deep, savory backbone in the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat—totally customizable to your crowd.
Orange Zest: Gives the sauce that irresistible, aromatic pop right at the end.
Sliced Green Onions & Sesame Seeds (Optional Garnishes): Add color and crunch just before serving.

How to Make Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces—they’ll cook evenly and soak up more flavor this way. Place the chicken in a large bowl, then sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing so every piece gets a head start in the flavor department. This simple seasoning makes a big difference in the end result.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Mix your cornstarch and gluten-free flour in a shallow dish. Working with one piece at a time, dredge the chicken in your flour mixture, coating well, then dip in the beaten eggs. This step gives the chicken that signature crispy, golden exterior—even without gluten.

Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat oil in your largest skillet over medium-high; you want enough so the chicken sizzles as soon as it hits the pan. Fry the chicken in batches so it gets golden and crunchy on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Set the finished pieces on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, resisting the urge to snack (or don’t, I totally get it!).

Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan, whisk together orange juice, gluten-free soy sauce, honey (or maple), rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in your cornstarch slurry and watch as the sauce transforms—within a couple minutes, it’ll become thick, glossy, and utterly tempting!

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Sprinkle in the orange zest and give everything a good stir. Add your crispy chicken right into the pan, gently tossing to ensure every piece is glossy and evenly coated. Let the chicken simmer for another 2 or 3 minutes so all those incredible flavors marry. Top with green onions and sesame seeds if you want to add a final pop of freshness and crunch.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Garnishes

The right garnish makes everything feel like a special occasion. For this Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner, I love scattering sliced green onions and sesame seeds right before serving. Not only do they add color, but they bring a bit of crunch and a fresh lift that contrasts beautifully with the sticky sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish shines over fluffy jasmine rice for a classic pairing, but you can easily serve it atop cauliflower rice or a bed of steamed broccoli if you’re after something lighter. Either option soaks up all that luscious orange sauce and makes sure not a drop is wasted. A side of snap peas or a crisp Asian slaw would also be right at home with this meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner up a notch by serving it in lettuce cups for a light, hand-held twist, or pile it high in a bowl with pickled veggies for a colorful rice bowl. You can even thread chicken bites onto skewers, drizzle with extra sauce, and set out as finger foods for parties—you’ll have everyone raving!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, so you might even love it more the next day! Keep the garnishes separate and only add them when you reheat and serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing

If you want to have this dinner ready at a moment’s notice, freeze the crispy cooked chicken pieces separate from the sauce in freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready, thaw both in the fridge overnight, then reheat and toss everything together. The texture holds up surprisingly well and makes for a fantastic meal prep solution.

Reheating

For ultimate crispiness, reheat the chicken in a hot oven (about 400°F) or an air fryer for a few minutes. Warm the sauce in a small saucepan or in the microwave, then toss together just before serving. This keeps the coating crisp and the sauce glossy and fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free as well?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free—just be sure to check your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t contain any dairy ingredients. Serve with your favorite non-dairy sides and you’re set.

How do I make the sauce less sweet?

If you prefer a more savory sauce, reduce the honey or maple syrup to two tablespoons and add an extra splash of rice vinegar or a little squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust it until it’s just how you like it!

What’s the best way to get super crispy chicken?

Thoroughly patting the chicken dry before dredging is key. Fry in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan—crispy chicken needs hot oil and room to breathe. Using a combination of cornstarch and gluten-free flour gives the best crunch. If you have an air fryer, it’s a fantastic tool for an extra crispy finish.

Can I substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp?

Definitely! Firm tofu cubes or peeled, deveined shrimp hold up well with this coating and sauce. Just adjust cooking times: tofu needs less time to brown, while shrimp cooks in just 2-3 minutes per side. The flavors of Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner will still shine through!

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a family favorite! If your kiddos are sensitive to spice, simply leave out the red pepper flakes. The sweet, tangy sauce and bite-sized chicken are usually a huge hit with kids of all ages.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making a restaurant-worthy classic at home, and this Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner makes it totally doable (and downright delicious). Whether you’re feeding family or friends, tackling meal prep, or treating yourself, this dish is always a winner. Give it a try and let your kitchen be filled with the irresistible aroma of fresh orange and sizzling chicken—you’ll be hooked after one bite!

Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy the delightful flavors of this gluten-free orange chicken recipe that’s perfect for a delicious dinner at home. Crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for Asian-inspired cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
3 tbsp oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

1/2 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp orange zest
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Toss chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in cornstarch and flour, then dip in beaten eggs.
Cook the Chicken: Fry chicken in oil until golden and crispy. Set aside on paper towels.
Make the Orange Sauce: Combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Thicken with cornstarch slurry.
Finish the Dish: Add orange zest and cooked chicken to the sauce. Heat through and garnish before serving.