Orange Chicken and Fried Rice: 7 Comforting Delights

Name: Orange Chicken and Fried Rice: 7 Comforting Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cups cooked rice; 1 cup mixed vegetables; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 11, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly delightful about the combination of orange chicken and fried rice that warms the heart and tickles the taste buds. Picture this: crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, nestled on a fluffy bed of perfectly stir-fried rice. It’s like a hug on a plate! The vibrant flavors dance together, creating a meal that’s not just satisfying but also incredibly comforting. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in the mood for something special yet quick to prepare. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving the zesty goodness of orange chicken and fried rice again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or having a cozy night in, this dish brings a burst of flavor that transforms everyday cooking into something truly enjoyable.

orange chicken and fried rice - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up this delicious orange chicken and fried rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking.
1/2 cup fresh orange juice – trust me, it makes a world of difference in flavor!
1/4 cup soy sauce for that savory kick.
1/4 cup sugar to balance out the tanginess.
2 tablespoons cornstarch, which will help thicken the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying – it’s essential for that crispy texture.
3 cups cooked rice, ideally day-old for the best results.
1 cup mixed vegetables, like peas and carrots, to add color and nutrition.
2 green onions, chopped, to sprinkle on top for freshness.
Salt and pepper to taste, of course!

Gathering these ingredients will set you up for success in creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying!

How to Prepare Orange Chicken and Fried Rice Instructions

Ready to bring this mouthwatering dish to life? Let’s dive into the steps for making orange chicken and fried rice that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Making the Orange Chicken

First things first, let’s whip up that delicious orange sauce! In a medium bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Give it a good whisk until everything’s combined and the sugar dissolves. Now, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, toss in the diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This is where the magic happens! Pour that vibrant orange sauce over the browned chicken and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening up beautifully! Once it coats the chicken, it’s ready to shine on your plate.

Preparing the Fried Rice

Now, let’s talk fried rice! In a separate pan, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add in your mixed vegetables and stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant. Then, grab those 3 cups of cooked rice (day-old works best for texture) and add it to the pan. Use a spatula to break apart any clumps. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice gets a lovely coating of the flavorful oil and mingles with the veggies. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Finally, serve generous portions of the orange chicken over your fried rice, garnishing with chopped green onions for that fresh crunch! And there you have it, a meal that’s bursting with flavor and comfort, ready to be enjoyed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous cravings.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy orange chicken pairs beautifully with savory fried rice, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level, making it suitable for all taste preferences.
Kid-Friendly: The appealing flavors and fun textures make it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free soy sauce makes this recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Tips for Success

To make your orange chicken and fried rice truly shine, here are some handy tips! First, always use fresh orange juice – it elevates the flavor to a whole new level. When cooking the chicken, ensure the oil is hot enough; this prevents sticking and gives that perfect golden crust. For the fried rice, day-old rice is best since it’s drier and helps avoid clumping. Don’t rush the stir-frying; keep the veggies crisp by cooking them on high heat. Finally, taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for a dish that’s perfectly seasoned just for you.

Nutritional Information

Wondering about the nutritional details of this delicious orange chicken and fried rice? Here’s what you can expect per serving (this is an estimate, of course!):

Calories: 450
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Sugar: 15g

This dish offers a satisfying balance of protein and carbs, making it a great option for a filling meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something tasty!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making orange chicken and fried rice? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries:

Can I use frozen vegetables for the fried rice? Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly and save time. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the pan for even cooking.
How can I spice up the orange chicken? If you like a kick, add some chili flakes or sriracha to the orange sauce! It complements the sweetness beautifully.
What type of rice is best for this recipe? Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and less sticky, making it perfect for stir-frying. But if you don’t have any, freshly cooked rice will work too; just let it cool down a bit.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. Just reheat and stir-fry the rice and veggies when you’re ready to serve.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions while whipping up this delicious meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! To store your delicious orange chicken and fried rice, let it cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last up to 2 months.

When it’s time to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a couple of minutes until heated through, stirring halfway to ensure even warming. If you prefer the stovetop, heat a little oil in a pan and stir-fry the mixture until hot. Enjoy it like it’s fresh out of the kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your orange chicken and fried rice experience, consider serving it alongside some crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for that perfect crunch! A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, whip up some homemade dumplings for a delightful addition that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the meal. And don’t forget a light drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your meal!

orange chicken and fried rice - detail 2

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this ginger soy chicken breast recipe or this pineapple teriyaki chicken recipe. You can also learn about the benefits of using fresh ingredients in your cooking here.