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To achieve that perfect glossy finish on your Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken, the sauce needs to be thickened just right. Cornstarch is the secret weapon here; it acts as an excellent thickening agent that will give your sauce the desired consistency without altering the flavor.

Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken

Discover the vibrant flavors of Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken, an Asian-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken and a delectable sweet and tangy orange sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home with minimal effort. Pair it with steamed rice or quinoa and colorful stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal that will impress family and friends alike!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

¼ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp onion powder

2 tbsp vegetable oil

½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

½ cup brown sugar

2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Zest of 1 large orange

Sesame seeds for garnish

Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour and set aside.

    Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

      Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and orange zest. Stir well and bring to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

        Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce is thick and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.

          Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it well to coat with the sticky orange sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is warmed through and thoroughly coated.

            Serve: Transfer the Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or alongside stir-fried vegetables.

              Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4