Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Nothing brings my family to the dinner table faster than this orange chicken fried rice It captures all the tangy sweet flavors we love from our go to takeout spot but is easy to whip up at home in a single skillet This recipe is a weeknight favorite for those crazy days when we need something comforting quick and full of bold flavor

I remember the first time I made this for movie night and my husband swore it tasted better than our usual takeout We have not looked back since and now my kids always ask who gets the last crispy chicken piece

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: You want fresh not frozen for best texture lean and easy to cut into cubes
• Salt pepper garlic powder: Adds base seasoning to every layer Make sure your spices are fresh for best results
• Flour and cornstarch: These give the chicken a crispy crust Always measure accurately for best coating
• Blend of paprika and chili powder: Adds warmth and just a little kick Hungarian paprika brings extra color and flavor
• Butter: Intensifies flavor and helps crisp everything real butter is key here
• Sesame oil: Gives deep nutty aroma If unavailable any high heat oil works but sesame truly enhances the dish
• Bacon: Strips for smoky salty crunch Choose thick cut if possible and dice small
• Uncooked long grain white rice: Works best for traditional fried rice Texture is perfect when pre cooked and chilled
• Frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and always available Choose a colorful mix for looks and nutrition
• Low sodium soy sauce: The base for fried rice flavor Lower sodium keeps it from getting too salty
• Eggs: Bind the rice and add wow factor Choose large eggs from free range for best taste
• Chopped green onions: Classic garnish and fresh finish look for bright green stalks
• Store bought orange sauce: Cuts down prep time check the ingredient label for real orange flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

Cook two cups of uncooked long grain white rice according to package directions Spread out on a tray and chill in the refrigerator This makes the fried rice less sticky

Season the Chicken:

Cut chicken breast into bite size cubes Sprinkle on salt pepper and garlic powder This step ensures the seasoning is in every bite

Coat the Chicken:

Mix flour cornstarch and seasonings like salt pepper garlic powder paprika and chili powder in a bowl Dredge the seasoned chicken cubes in the mixture Shake off the excess to avoid clumping

Fry the Chicken:

Heat oil and butter over medium high in a large skillet Once bubbling add the chicken in a single layer Cook until golden brown on all sides about four to six minutes Remove and set aside

Crisp the Bacon:

Add chopped bacon pieces to the same skillet Cook stirring often until crispy This adds an irresistible smoky layer

Combine Rice and Vegetables:

Add the chilled cooked rice and frozen vegetables to the skillet Drizzle with more oil if the pan looks dry Stir and let the rice soak up the bacon flavor

Season and Sauce:

Season the rice mixture with more salt pepper garlic powder and two tablespoons of soy sauce Taste and adjust as needed Do not add too much liquid at once

Cook the Eggs:

Push the rice to the sides creating a well in the center Crack in the eggs and scramble gently Cook just until set then mix into the rice for richness and body

Crisp and Finish the Rice:

Keep cooking and stirring the rice mixture until it reaches your desired level of crispiness Spread across two pans for extra crispy edges if preferred

Sauce the Chicken:

Toss the cooked chicken cubes in orange sauce until well coated Layer over top of fried rice

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle chopped green onions over everything Serve straight from the pan for family style fun

My favorite part about this dish is the orange glazed chicken which comes out crisp and vibrant every single time My kids love helping to toss the chicken in sauce and it is always a hit at birthday dinners since everyone gets a little bit of everything

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they will stay fresh for up to three days For best reheating results warm gently in a nonstick pan to revive the crispy rice Avoid the microwave if possible because it can make the chicken coating soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No orange sauce on hand Try mixing orange marmalade with a little soy sauce and rice vinegar as a quick substitute If you are out of bacon diced ham or smoked turkey works too For a vegetarian twist swap chicken for tofu and skip the bacon

Serving Suggestions

Add sliced cucumber for a fresh crunch or top with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor This dish pairs beautifully with a light miso soup or simple stir fried broccoli For something different try serving it in lettuce cups for a fun family style meal

Cultural Context

Orange chicken fried rice is one of those American Chinese mashup dishes that bring together the quick satisfaction of fried rice with the sweet tangy flavors that have become iconic in American restaurants While not traditional to China it is inspired by takeout classics and always brings a bit of restaurant nostalgia to the table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh asparagus and snap peas in spring Swap in grilled summertime corn for the mixed vegetables Stir in roasted diced butternut squash in fall for natural sweetness

Success Stories

One of my closest friends asked for this recipe after a potluck and now it has become their Friday night staple too It is perfect for casual gatherings since people always go back for seconds and leftovers heat up tastily for lunch the next day

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let everything cool completely Transfer to a freezer safe container or zip bag Spread flat in the freezer for easy stacking and quick thawing To reheat dump directly into a skillet with a little oil and cover briefly to steam through

This orange chicken fried rice always brings everyone rushing to the table and leftovers taste just as delicious the next day Serve it for a weeknight, party, or anytime you want fast comfort food with a twist

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, using cold, day-old rice helps achieve the best texture, keeping the grains separate and less sticky.

→ What protein alternatives work?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced pork for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I make the fried rice crispier?

Spread the rice in a single layer, use a hot skillet, and avoid stirring too often to get a crispier finish.

→ Can I prepare the orange sauce at home?

Homemade sauce with orange juice, soy sauce, and honey is a great option if you prefer to skip store-bought.

→ Are the vegetables customizable?

Absolutely. Mix in peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers, or any veggies you have on hand for added color and nutrition.