This homemade orange chicken paired with teriyaki chicken fried rice brings together the bold, sweet, and savory flavors of your favorite takeout in one satisfying meal. Made with tender chicken, a rich citrus glaze, and flavorful fried rice, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers the perfect balance of crispy, saucy, and savory elements in one complete meal. The orange chicken delivers a bright, tangy sweetness with a sticky glaze, while the teriyaki chicken adds a deep, savory richness. Cooking the fried rice and teriyaki chicken in a slow cooker makes the process simple and hands-off, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
It’s also a high-protein meal, making it both filling and satisfying. The combination of textures—from crispy chicken to soft, flavorful rice—keeps every bite interesting. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the orange chicken:
1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the orange sauce:
1/2 cup orange marmalade
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Start by preparing the fried rice base. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and peas and carrots into your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Next, add the teriyaki chicken ingredients directly into the slow cooker with the rice. Stir gently to combine and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and infused with flavor.
While the slow cooker is finishing, prepare the orange sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange marmalade, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Let the mixture simmer until it begins to thicken slightly. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce becomes glossy and thick.
For the orange chicken, coat the chicken pieces first in the beaten eggs, then dredge them in a mixture of flour and cornstarch seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook the coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Once cooked, transfer the crispy chicken into the prepared orange sauce and toss until evenly coated.
In a separate pan, scramble the eggs until just set. Stir the scrambled eggs into the cooked rice mixture along with soy sauce, butter, oil, and chopped green onions. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Serve the orange chicken and teriyaki chicken alongside the fried rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 25 minutes.
Cooking time is about 4 to 6 hours due to the slow cooker process.
Total time is around 5 to 6 hours.
Variations
You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. Add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value and add crunch. For a spicier version, include chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the orange sauce.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can air-fry or bake the orange chicken instead of frying. Brown rice can also be used instead of white rice for a healthier twist.
For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or add a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the rice and chicken in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
If the rice becomes dry, add a small splash of chicken broth or water before reheating. The orange chicken can also be reheated in an oven or air fryer to help maintain its crispiness.
Freezing is possible, but it’s best to store the components separately to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the rice on the stovetop and prepare the teriyaki chicken in a pan instead.
How do I make the orange chicken less sweet?
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a low-sugar marmalade.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep all ingredients in advance and cook when ready.
What oil is best for frying the chicken?
Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil work best.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely, vegetables like broccoli, corn, or mushrooms are great additions.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce or keep the sauce separate until serving.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can add spice if desired.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen peas and carrots work perfectly in this recipe.
What can I serve with this dish?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can add a light salad or soup if desired.
Conclusion
This homemade orange chicken and teriyaki chicken fried rice recipe delivers everything you love about takeout with the comfort of home cooking. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and simple preparation, it’s a perfect go-to meal for busy days or special dinners. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
A flavorful homemade meal combining crispy orange chicken with sweet citrus glaze and savory teriyaki chicken fried rice for a complete takeout-style dish.
