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Double Crunch Orange Chicken - Super Crunchy and Flavorful Recipe
Jessica

Double Crunch Orange Chicken

Crispy double-coated chicken pieces tossed in a sweet-tangy orange glaze. This homemade version beats takeout with its shatteringly crisp texture and bright citrus flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup cold water
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 0.75 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 0.33 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Candy/deep-fry thermometer
  • Wire rack
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with cold water until well combined. Set up your breading station with flour mixture, egg wash, and flour mixture in three separate bowls.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into flour mixture, then egg wash, then back into flour mixture, pressing firmly to create thick, clumpy coating. Place on a wire rack.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Drain on wire rack.
  5. For the sauce, combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Bring to simmer over medium heat.
  6. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened and glossy. Toss fried chicken in sauce immediately and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

  • Keep fried chicken warm in 200°F oven while finishing batches
  • Make sauce just before tossing to maintain perfect glaze consistency
  • Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F oil temperature for crispiest results
  • Serve immediately for best texture