Name: Delicious Tangerine Chicken: Quick, Zesty, and Healthy Choice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breasts (Boneless, skinless); 2 large Eggs (For coating chicken); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating chicken); 1/2 cup Tangerine Juice (Fresh or bottled); 1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce; 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Red Chili Paste (Adjust for spice level); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar; 1 tablespoon Garlic and Ginger Paste (Mixed); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Diced for garnish); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Diced); 1/2 cup Tangerine Segments; 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for spice)

I stood in my kitchen, the air thick with anticipation, as the aroma of Spicy Tangerine Chicken began to fill the room. It’s one of those recipes that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an unforgettable feast. This easy, one-pan wonder features juicy chicken swimming in a perfectly balanced sweet and savory tangerine sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. Not only is it gluten-free, but it also comes together in a flash—a lifesaver for those busy evenings when fast food might tempt you. Plus, this dish guarantees a clean plate at the dinner table, making it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a burst of flavor that’s as satisfying as it is quick?

Why is Tangerine Chicken so irresistible?

Juicy Flavor: The tender chicken soaks up the sweet and tangy tangerine sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this one-pan dish, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights.

Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy a delicious meal without dietary worries! This dish caters to gluten-free diets while still packing a flavor punch.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s no secret that everyone loves a good stir fry! Served over rice or noodles, this dish is bound to disappear in no time, just like our Buffalo Chicken Tacos or Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to switch out chicken for tofu or your favorite veggies—everyone can enjoy this scrumptious recipe!

Tangerine Chicken Ingredients

• A delightful blend of flavors awaits!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Juicy lean meat that absorbs the tangerine sauce; use boneless, skinless for the best results.
Eggs – Used to coat the chicken, creating a crispy texture when fried.
Cornstarch – Adds a crunch to the chicken and thickens the sauce.

For the Sauce

Tangerine Juice – Adds sweetness and tanginess, tenderizing chicken; fresh or 100% bottled juice works perfectly.
Hoisin Sauce – Provides a sweet and savory component to the sauce; a rich addition of flavor.
Soy Sauce – Contributes umami flavor and saltiness, enhancing the taste of tangerine chicken.
Red Chili Paste – Adds the spice; adjust according to your taste preference for the perfect kick.
Brown Sugar – Balances the acidity with sweetness in the sauce, enhancing its flavor profile.
Garlic and Ginger Paste – Boosts the overall flavor with aromatic notes; a must-have for depth!

For Garnish and Texture

Green Onions – For garnish, adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
Red Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and a colorful addition, brightening the presentation.
Tangerine Segments – Add texture and intensify the citrus flavor; perfect for an eye-catching finish.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for added heat; sprinkle on before serving if you’re craving spice!

Now that you have all the ingredients in front of you, get ready to create your very own delicious tangerine chicken that’s sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Tangerine Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and placing them in a bowl. Pour fresh tangerine juice over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This will enhance the flavors and tenderize the chicken, making it perfect for your Spicy Tangerine Chicken.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine tangerine juice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, red chili paste, brown sugar, garlic and ginger pastes, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently for about 10 minutes. This will create a rich sauce that blends sweet, savory, and spicy notes, perfect for the next step.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well combined. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and coat each piece thoroughly in the egg-cornstarch mixture. This step ensures that your chicken will have a crispy, golden-brown exterior once fried, adding delightful texture to your Spicy Tangerine Chicken dish.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat canola oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 300°F. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying them for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken onto a wire rack to drain excess oil. This step is critical for achieving that perfect crunch that makes Spicy Tangerine Chicken so delightful.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Once the sauce has simmered for 10 minutes, stir the slurry into the sauce. Continue to simmer while stirring for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to a nice coating consistency. This luscious sauce is what will bring the flavors together in your Spicy Tangerine Chicken.

Step 6: Combine
After thickening the sauce, add the crispy fried chicken, tangerine segments, and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece is well coated in the glossy sauce. Keep the heat on low while combining for about 2 minutes. This step helps to warm the chicken and vegetables through while enhancing the vibrant flavors of your Spicy Tangerine Chicken.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined and heated, remove your Spicy Tangerine Chicken from the heat. Serve hot over fluffy white rice or Asian-style noodles for a satisfying meal. Lastly, top each serving with a sprinkling of diced green onions and optional sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the burst of flavors that your homemade dish brings!

What to Serve with Spicy Tangerine Chicken Stir Fry

Elevate your dining experience with delicious accompaniments that enhance the vibrant flavors of this aromatic dish.

Fluffy White Rice: Complements the dish perfectly, absorbing the tangy sauce while providing a neutral base to balance flavors.
Asian-style Noodles: These provide a satisfying chewiness and carry the sauce beautifully, offering a delightful twist to your meal.

For a refreshing contrast, consider a light Cucumber Salad. Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil provide a cool and crisp palate cleanser between each flavorful bite of spicy chicken. It’s the perfect way to balance the dish’s heat.

Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green addition brings nutrients and a mild flavor that pairs well with the bold chicken, enhancing the overall color and nutrition of your plate.
Sesame Green Beans: The slight crunch and nutty flavor of these beans, tossed in a sesame dressing, perfectly round out the meal while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.
Chilled Sake or Sparkling Water: Opt for chilled sake for an authentic Asian experience, or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lime to cleanse the palate between bites of savory goodness.

Embrace these delightful pairings for a memorable dining experience around your Spicy Tangerine Chicken Stir Fry!

Tangerine Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this tangy dish; your kitchen is your canvas, and the possibilities are endless!

Tofu Swap: Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a delightful vegetarian option. Just like chicken, tofu soaks in that delicious tangerine flavor!
Orange Juice Twist: Replace tangerine juice with fresh orange juice for a slightly different citrus zing. It adds a familiar sweetness that’s sure to please.
Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in a mix of your favorite vegetables like snap peas or zucchini. They will add a crisp texture and make it even more colorful!
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red chili paste or add sriracha for those who love a fiery punch. Your taste buds will thank you for the extra heat!
Nutty Flavor: Consider adding toasted sesame oil to the cooking oil for an aromatic, nutty touch. It elevates the dish with deeper layers of flavor.
Gluten-Free Sauce: Ensure the soy sauce is marked gluten-free to keep the dish safe for all dietary needs. You won’t lose any flavor—promise!
Rice Substitution: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still provides a satisfying base for your flavorful chicken.

This dish is so versatile! Whether served up alongside a simple salad like my refreshing Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, or eaten alone with some delightful steamed greens, every variation is a tasty masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

Tips for the Best Tangerine Chicken

Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours lets the flavors penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall taste of your tangerine chicken.
Hot Oil: Ensure the oil is at 300°F before adding the chicken. This prevents the meat from becoming greasy and ensures a crispy texture.
Crispy Coating: Don’t rush the coating process. Make sure each piece of chicken is completely covered in the egg-cornstarch mixture for optimal crunchiness.
Adjust the Spice: If you prefer milder dishes, feel free to reduce or omit the red chili paste and red pepper flakes to tailor the heat in your tangerine chicken.
Fresh Juice: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed tangerine juice instead of bottled for brighter, more vibrant flavors in your sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Tangerine Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover tangerine chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness; simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tangerine chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months, ensuring no air pockets to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or use the microwave for quicker thawing paired with brief reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture; add a splash of water to the skillet to revive the sauce’s glaze while warming the chicken evenly.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Tangerine Chicken stir fry components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in tangerine juice for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that it absorbs all the sweet and tangy flavors. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just give it a quick whisk before using to maintain its smooth texture. When it’s time to serve, simply coat the marinated chicken, fry until crispy, and toss everything together with the prepped sauce. This approach saves you time during busy weeknights while delivering just as delicious results, making your family dinners a delightful experience.

Spicy Tangerine Chicken Stir Fry Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best tangerines?
Absolutely! Look for tangerines that are firm and feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The skin should be bright and smooth without dark spots or wrinkles, as these can signify overripeness.

What is the best way to store leftover tangerine chicken?
Store your leftover tangerine chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use medium heat on the stovetop to ensure even warming without making the chicken dry.

Can I freeze tangerine chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled tangerine chicken in an airtight container, ensuring no air pockets. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if my chicken doesn’t get crispy?
If your chicken isn’t crispy, make sure your oil is heated to 300°F before frying; this temperature is key for the right texture. Also, ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the egg-cornstarch mixture and fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Is this recipe safe for gluten intolerance?
Very! This recipe is gluten-free. Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled as gluten-free, and you are good to go. For an optimal experience, always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Can I use a different type of juice instead of tangerine juice?
Certainly! If tangerines aren’t available, orange juice works beautifully as a substitute, providing a similar sweet and tangy profile. You could also try mixing in lemon or lime juice for a zesty twist, just be cautious with the acidity!