There’s something truly satisfying about recreating restaurant favorites at home, especially when you can make them gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. This Gluten Free Orange Chicken hits that sweet spot perfectly—tangy, crispy, and bursting with zesty citrus notes that brighten every bite. Whether you’re tired of fast food or just want a comforting dish that’s both easy and impressive, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing punch with wholesome ingredients. Get ready to enjoy the sparkle of fresh oranges married with tender chicken, all wrapped up in a sauce that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Why choose Gluten Free Orange Chicken?
Flavor Explosion: This recipe combines tangy orange zest and a subtle sweetness that awakens your taste buds. Easy Prep: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make cooking stress-free for any home chef. Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy the classic comfort without gluten worries. Versatile and Light: Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests with a fresh twist. Crispy & Tender: Each bite offers a satisfying crunch balanced with juicy chicken, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Gluten Free Orange Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless chicken thighs – choose thighs for tenderness and juiciness in your gluten free orange chicken.
- Gluten-free cornstarch – creates a light, crispy coating that’s essential for that perfect crunch.
- Eggs – help the cornstarch adhere to the chicken for even crisping.
- Salt and pepper – simple seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
For the Orange Sauce
- Fresh orange juice – packed with zesty citrus flavor to make the sauce bright and refreshing.
- Orange zest – intensifies the orange aroma for a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.
- Gluten-free soy sauce – adds savory depth while keeping the dish gluten friendly.
- Honey – balances tangy and sweet for a harmonious sauce.
- Garlic – infuses a warm, aromatic base note that complements the sweetness.
- Ginger – adds a subtle zing that lifts the flavor profile beautifully.
- Cornstarch slurry – thickens the sauce to the perfect, glossy consistency without gluten.
Optional Garnish
- Sliced green onions – for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Sesame seeds – add crunch and a nutty touch, enhancing texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Gluten Free Orange Chicken
- Prep Chicken: Trim and cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, then pat dry for a light, ultra-crispy coating.
- Coat Chicken: Whisk eggs in a bowl, dip each piece, then dredge in gluten-free cornstarch, shaking off excess to ensure even browning.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a skillet to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat to around 350°F, oil should shimmer without smoking.
- Fry Chicken: Fry in batches for 4–5 pieces, turning once, until golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
For the Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl whisk together fresh orange juice, zest, gluten-free soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch slurry.
- Simmer Sauce: Transfer mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until sauce thickens and turns glossy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Toss Together: Add hot fried chicken to the sauce. Gently toss until every piece is coated in that vibrant, sticky glaze.
- Garnish & Serve: Plate chicken, then sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately for peak crunch and flavor.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh orange for extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gluten Free Orange Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these exciting twists and swaps!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a fiery version that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Crispier Chicken: Substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for cornstarch for an extra crunchy texture that’s hard to resist!
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Fruity Flair: Incorporate a splash of pineapple juice in the sauce for a sweet tropical twist that pairs beautifully with orange.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap in crispy tofu or seitan for a plant-based version while enjoying similar textures and flavors.
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Lower Sugar: Replace honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener to reduce sugars without sacrificing the signature sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh cilantro or basil before serving for an aromatic garnish that elevates the dish’s vibrant citrus notes.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in roasted cashews or almonds as a topping for added crunch and a delightful flavor contrast.
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Citrus Medley: Use a blend of citrus juices like lime or lemon along with orange juice for a refreshing multi-citrus flavor explosion.
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Orange Chicken
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest make the sauce vibrant and naturally sweet—avoid bottled juice to keep authentic flavor.
- Pat chicken dry: Ensuring the chicken pieces are dry before coating helps the cornstarch adhere well and creates a crispier texture.
- Maintain oil temperature: Keep frying oil around 350°F; too low leads to soggy chicken, too high burns the coating quickly.
- Batch fry carefully: Cook chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which lowers oil temperature and compromises crispiness.
- Thicken sauce gradually: Add cornstarch slurry slowly and stir constantly to prevent lumps and achieve that perfect glossy finish.
- Toss gently: Coat the fried chicken in sauce with care to keep the crispiness while delivering the signature sticky glaze of gluten free orange chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Orange Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover gluten free orange chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this keeps the flavors fresh while preventing any moisture loss.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be stored for up to 3 months. Remember to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining the chicken’s crispiness without making it soggy.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight to retain texture before reheating, making sure it’s enjoyable at mealtime!
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Orange Chicken components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken pieces in salt and pepper up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the orange sauce (combining fresh orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch slurry) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply fry the chicken and toss it in the pre-prepared sauce to achieve delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Just remember to reheat the sauce gently to maintain its silky glossy texture!
What to Serve with Gluten Free Orange Chicken?
Pair your flavorful Gluten Free Orange Chicken with delightful sides that will elevate your meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture soaks up the vibrant sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying and aromatic. Pairing this with orange chicken creates a harmonious balance that feels complete.
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Garlic Broccoli: A touch of earthy greens adds a nutritious crunch and complements the sweetness of the orange sauce, rounding out the meal perfectly.
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Crispy Wontons: These crunchy bites offer a delightful contrast to the tender chicken. Stuffed with cream cheese or veggies, they add a fun, textural element that’s perfect for sharing.
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Sesame Noodles: Served cold or warm, these noodles with a hint of sesame elevate the dish with Asian-inspired flavors and a delightful chewiness that brings comfort to the table.
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Sweet and Spicy Slaw: A refreshing slaw with a dash of spice offers a zesty crunch that brightens every bite of chicken, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
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Sparkling Citrus Punch: Quench your thirst with a gently fizzy drink that emphasizes the zesty notes of the orange chicken, making it perfect for casual gatherings or festive dinners.
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Coconut Lychee Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a tropical dessert that contrasts nicely with the savory, zesty chicken—light, refreshing, and utterly satisfying.
Gluten Free Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken thighs are fresh and good for this recipe?
Choose chicken thighs that are firm to the touch with a pale pink color. Avoid any with a strong odor or dark spots all over, as these are signs of spoilage.
Can I store leftover gluten free orange chicken in the refrigerator?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping it sealed well helps preserve the sauce’s flavor and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Is it possible to freeze gluten free orange chicken for later use?
Very! After cooling completely, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
What if my coating isn’t crispy after frying?
This can happen if the chicken isn’t patted dry before coating or if the oil temperature is too low. Make sure to dry the chicken pieces thoroughly and maintain the oil at about 350°F. Fry in small batches without overcrowding to keep the oil hot and the coating crisp.
Is this gluten free orange chicken safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe uses gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, which are generally safe for most people avoiding gluten. However, it’s not suitable for pets, as ingredients like garlic and onion are toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep it for human enjoyment only!
Easy Gluten Free Orange Chicken Recipe That Bursts with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim and cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, then pat dry.
- Whisk eggs in a bowl, dip each piece, then dredge in gluten-free cornstarch, shaking off excess.
- Heat oil in a skillet to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to around 350°F.
- Fry chicken in batches for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp; drain on paper towels.
- Whisk together fresh orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch slurry in a bowl.
- Transfer mixture to a saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until thickened and glossy.
- Add hot fried chicken to the sauce and toss until every piece is well coated.
- Plate chicken, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds; serve immediately.
