Orange chicken is a beloved takeout classic, but finding a truly satisfying gluten-free version can be a challenge. This recipe delivers all the sticky, sweet, and tangy flavor you crave, with an incredibly crispy coating that holds up beautifully. We’ve perfected the balance of gluten-free flours and a vibrant orange sauce to recreate that authentic restaurant taste in your own kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this gluten-free orange chicken is surprisingly simple to make. Forget the delivery apps; you’ll soon be making this homemade version again and again.
Crispy Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and 2 tsp ground ginger in a large plastic storage bag. Seal the bag.
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Whisk eggs in a medium bowl. Add chicken to eggs and stir to coat.
- Add coated chicken to the bag with flour mixture. Seal and shake until chicken pieces are fully coated. Refrigerate while heating oil.
- Heat vegetable oil (4 cups) in a large skillet or wok to 350°F.
- Carefully add chicken pieces to hot oil (do not overcrowd). Fry for 3-4 minutes until light golden brown.
- Remove chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Carefully pour out hot oil from skillet. Wipe skillet clean and return to stovetop.
Notes
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve a crispier coating.
– For the sauce, feel free to adjust sugar and ginger to your taste preference. Allergens: Soybeans, Wheat. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
Pro tips
- For extra crispiness, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve a crispier coating.
- For the sauce, feel free to adjust sugar and ginger to your taste preference.
Enjoy this delicious gluten-free orange chicken that rivals any takeout! It’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family.
Try this next: Crispy General Tso’s Chicken (GF!)
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Frequently asked questions
Can I make gluten-free orange chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and breaded chicken pieces separately ahead of time. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the uncooked, breaded chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer until ready to cook. Reheat the sauce gently before combining with freshly cooked chicken.
What is the best way to store leftover orange chicken?
Store any leftover gluten-free orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat it in an air fryer.
How do I make gluten-free orange chicken crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure the chicken is well-coated with the gluten-free flour mixture and fry or bake it until golden brown. For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet. After saucing, you can briefly return the coated chicken to a hot oven or air fryer to re-crisp if needed.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour for cornstarch in orange chicken?
Cornstarch is typically used as a thickener for the sauce, not for breading. For breading, a gluten-free flour blend (like rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch) works well. If you want to thicken the sauce and don’t have cornstarch, a gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used, but it may require a longer simmering time.
