Costco Orange Chicken Recipe 

I get a craving for Costco Orange Chicken Recipe all the time, but I don’t always feel like making a trip to the store. That’s when I decided to crack the code and create my own version right in my kitchen.

After a few tries, I finally perfected a recipe that tastes just as good, if not better, than the original. The chicken is perfectly crispy, and the sauce has that amazing sweet and tangy citrus flavor I love.

It has become a regular weeknight dinner in my house, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to recreate this delicious dish. You can find most of these items in your pantry or at any local grocery store.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Using breasts makes preparation quick and easy, but thighs also work well.
• 3 large eggs – These act as a binder, helping the crispy coating stick to the chicken pieces.
• ⅓ cup cornstarch – This is the secret to getting that extra crispy texture on the outside.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Mixed with cornstarch, it creates a light yet sturdy breading.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Just a little to season the chicken and the coating.
• Oil for frying – A neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil works best for frying.

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice – For the best flavor, use fresh-squeezed, but a good quality bottled juice works too.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar and orange juice.
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar – Provides a mild, tangy flavor that is essential for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds a savory, umami depth to the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Freshly minced garlic offers a much better flavor than the jarred kind.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger – Grating fresh ginger root releases its pungent, aromatic oils.
• ¼ teaspoon sesame oil – A little goes a long way to add a distinct, nutty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons water – Used to create the cornstarch slurry.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – This will thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency for coating the chicken.

Optional Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 orange, zested
• 1 tablespoon green onion, sliced

Note: The quantities provided are sufficient for approximately 4 servings.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few variations to try.

• Spicy Orange Chicken: If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce while it simmers. You could also serve it with a side of your favorite hot sauce.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: For an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or cashews over the finished dish.
• Extra Fruity: Enhance the citrus flavor by adding mandarin orange slices or even some pineapple chunks to the sauce just before you toss in the chicken.
• Baked Instead of Fried: For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Add Vegetables: Make it a complete meal by tossing in some cooked vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots with the chicken and sauce.

Cooking Time

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal because it comes together so quickly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this recipe. Here is the basic equipment that will make the process smooth.

• Large and small bowls – For mixing the chicken coating and preparing the sauce ingredients.
• Whisk – To combine the sauce ingredients and make the cornstarch slurry.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – For cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer – To fry the chicken evenly and safely.
• Slotted spoon – For removing the cooked chicken from the hot oil.
• Small saucepan – To cook and thicken the delicious orange sauce.
• Zester – For getting fine zest from the orange to use as a garnish.

How to Make Costco Orange Chicken Recipe?

Making this dish is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time. The process involves preparing and frying the chicken, making the sauce, and then combining everything.

Prepare and Fry the Chicken

First, heat about 3 inches of oil in your pot or deep fryer to 360°F. While the oil is heating, place your bite-sized chicken pieces in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, cornstarch, flour, and salt, then pour this mixture over the chicken and toss until every piece is well-coated.

Cook the Chicken in Batches

Once the oil is hot, carefully add some of the coated chicken pieces. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken for a few minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy, then use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Simmer the Orange Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat for about 3 minutes. In a small bowl, stir together the water and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry, then whisk this into the simmering sauce.

Thicken the Sauce and Combine

Continue to cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still have a slightly runny consistency. Once thickened, add the fried chicken to the saucepan and gently toss everything together until each piece is beautifully coated in the glossy orange sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the orange chicken to a serving platter. For the finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh orange zest, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look incredible. Serve it immediately while it’s hot and crispy.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Over the times I’ve made this, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it from good to great.

• I found that double-frying the chicken makes it exceptionally crispy. First, fry it at 350°F for about 2 minutes, then remove it. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F and fry it again until it’s a deep golden brown.
• Don’t be tempted to over-thicken the sauce. I learned that if it’s too thick, it becomes clumpy and doesn’t coat the chicken as nicely. It should be just thick enough to cling to the chicken.
• I always make sure my chicken pieces are cut to a uniform size. This ensures they all cook evenly in the same amount of time.
• For the best flavor, I cannot recommend using fresh ginger and garlic enough. The pre-minced jarred versions just don’t have the same vibrant taste.

How to Serve Costco Orange Chicken Recipe?

This copycat orange chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many classic side dishes. For an authentic takeout experience, serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Jasmine rice is a particularly great choice as its floral aroma complements the citrusy sauce.

You can also serve it with noodles, such as lo mein or simple rice noodles. To round out the meal, add a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli, stir-fried bell peppers, or sautéed bok choy are all excellent options that add color and nutrition to your plate.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving for this recipe.

• Calories: 413 kcal
• Protein: 31g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 7g

Make Ahead and Storage

This orange chicken is a great option for meal prep, as it stores and reheats well.

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken may lose some of its crispiness, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the orange chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container and it will keep for up to 3 months. For best results, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately.

Reheating: To reheat, you can use the microwave, warming it in 1-minute intervals until hot. For a crispier result, reheat the chicken in an air fryer or a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why I’m sure this recipe will become a favorite in your household.

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish takes only 35 minutes to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Healthier Than Takeout: By making it at home, you control the ingredients. You use less oil than deep-fried restaurant versions, and you can be sure you’re using fresh, high-quality components.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavor profile is a huge hit with both kids and adults. Even the pickiest eaters in my family ask for seconds.
• Budget-Friendly: This recipe utilizes common pantry staples, making it much more affordable than ordering from a restaurant or buying the pre-made version. You get all the flavor for a fraction of the cost.