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After a long day filled with deadlines and to-do lists, I often find myself longing for the comforting flavors of my childhood—especially that beloved crispy orange chicken from takeout! But as much as I treasure those flavors, I also want meals that align with my health goals. Enter my Vegan Orange Chicken, a delightful twist on the classic dish.

Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy tofu that’s perfectly coated in a vibrant, homemade orange sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. This recipe not only satisfies those cravings, but it also offers flexibility with options like cauliflower for a lighter bite or gluten-free alternatives. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s an easy, quick-fix meal that brings the joy of takeout straight to your kitchen without the guilt. So, let’s dive into this delicious, plant-based adventure that proves healthy cooking can be truly comforting!

Why is Vegan Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Delicious and satisfying, this vegan orange chicken captures the essence of takeout without the guilt. Crispy tofu absorbs all the vibrant flavors, creating a dish your taste buds will thank you for. Healthy twist: enjoy classic comfort food with a plant-based approach! Customizable options allow for gluten-free and oil-free alternatives, perfect for any dietary need. Quick and easy, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something special. For more inspiration, check out our guide on easy vegan meals.

Vegan Orange Chicken Ingredients

• Let’s gather all the essentials for this incredible dish!

For the Tofu

Extra-Firm Tofu – Provides the main protein; freezing and thawing beforehand enhances its chicken-like texture.
Cornstarch – Acts as a coating for crispy texture; essential for that perfect crunch. Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed.
Garlic Powder – Adds flavor depth; can be substituted with fresh minced garlic to taste.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for sea salt or kosher salt for best results.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce / Tamari / Coconut Aminos – Provides saltiness and umami flavor; Tamari makes it gluten-free.
Fresh Orange Juice – Key for the sauce’s brightness and acidity; freshly squeezed is best, but store-bought can work if not overly sweet.
Maple Syrup / Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the sauce; adjust according to taste, or use honey if not strictly vegan.

For Frying

Oil (Optional) – Recommended oils are avocado, canola, or vegetable oil for frying; avoid olive oil due to its low smoking point.

This Vegan Orange Chicken is an explosion of flavors in every bite! Get ready to recreate this comforting takeout favorite in a healthy and satisfying way.

How to Make Vegan Orange Chicken

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by freezing your extra-firm tofu overnight to enhance its texture. After thawing, drain any excess moisture and press it gently. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Coat the Tofu: In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt. Take each tofu cube and coat it evenly with the mixture for that perfect crunch!
Fry the Tofu: Heat your oil in a pan or air fryer. If frying, cook the tofu at 375°F for about 18-22 minutes, flipping every 7 minutes. Aim for a golden brown color and a crispy texture.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and maple syrup or sugar. Mix until thoroughly combined, creating a vibrant sauce that will elevate your dish.
Combine: Once the tofu is crisped to perfection, pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and stir gently to coat. Heat for one more minute until the sauce thickens slightly, enhancing its delicious flavors.
Serve: Serve your homemade Vegan Orange Chicken immediately, ideally over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa. Feel free to garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch!

Optional: Serve with steamed broccoli for a nutritious boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Vegan Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!

Cauliflower Substitute: Swap tofu for cauliflower florets for a gluten-free, lower-calorie option that still packs flavor. Florets get crispy and are a delightful twist!
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy boost. For extra heat, serve with a drizzle of sriracha on top—perfect for heat lovers!
Baked Option: Instead of frying, coat the tofu with cornstarch and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway. This method delivers a healthier option without sacrificing that crispy exterior.
Sweet and Sour Twist: Enhance the flavor by mixing in a tablespoon of pineapple juice with the orange sauce for a sweet and tangy profile that brightens the dish!
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil at the end to add a rich, nutty flavor. A simple addition transforms this dish into a more vibrant experience.
Herbed Sauce: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for a fragrant, garden-fresh lift. These herbs provide an aromatic complement to the citrus sweetness!
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli while tossing the tofu in sauce. This addition creates a beautiful medley of colors and nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.
Oil-Free Option: For a completely oil-free dish, try air frying the tofu without any oil. It might be just as crispy, keeping the dish light and healthy without compromising taste.

Storage Tips for Vegan Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover vegan orange chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze the crispy tofu and sauce separately for up to 2 months. This allows for quick meal prep later—just thaw and reheat!
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring the tofu stays crispy.
Wrap and Seal: If storing in the fridge, ensure your container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss and maintain the deliciousness of your vegan orange chicken.

Expert Tips for Vegan Orange Chicken

Freezing Tofu: Always freeze the tofu overnight for enhanced texture! This technique helps it absorb the sauce and achieve a more satisfying chew.
Avoid Overcrowding: When frying your tofu, ensure enough space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to soggy or unevenly cooked pieces, preventing that delightful crunch.
Adjusting the Sauce: Taste your orange sauce before adding it to the tofu. Feel free to adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup or sugar according to your preference for a perfect balance in this vegan orange chicken.
Baking Alternative: If you prefer a healthier version, bake coated tofu at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an equally crispy result without extra oil.
Infuse More Flavor: Experiment with a sprinkle of ginger or chili flakes in the coating mix for an added kick in your vegan orange chicken!

What to Serve with Vegan Orange Chicken?

Imagine a homemade feast that perfectly complements the sweet and tangy flavors of your orange chicken, delighting every palate around the table.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy and fragrant, this classic side absorbs the sauce beautifully, making every bite a delicious experience.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and protein-packed, quinoa adds a wholesome touch while its light texture provides a delightful contrast to the crispy tofu.
Broccoli Stir-Fry: Bright green and tender-crisp, this vibrant veggie adds freshness and a crunch that harmonizes wonderfully with the richness of the orange sauce.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers filled with vegetables enhance the meal’s texture and offer a satisfying contrast to the main dish’s softness.
Garlic Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing that provides a cooling effect, balancing the sweet and savory notes of vegan orange chicken.
Toasted Sesame Noodles: Nutty and savory, these noodles are a comforting addition that rounds out your meal, creating a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing dessert that offers a sweet finish while the citrus notes resonate beautifully with the orange chicken.
Iced Green Tea: A soothing drink to sip on during the meal, its light, herbal flavor complements the dish without overpowering it.

Embrace these delightful pairings that will elevate your homemade Vegan Orange Chicken experience from simple to unforgettable.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Orange Chicken options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the tofu by freezing it up to 24 hours in advance; after thawing, simply drain, press, and coat with cornstarch. Additionally, the orange sauce can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving. To maintain the crispy texture, fry the tofu just before combining it with the sauce. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, heat the tofu, pour over the chilled sauce, and stir to heat through for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Vegan Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for extra-firm tofu, which provides a meatier texture. Make sure the tofu has a solid structure; look for packages that have minimal moisture and no dark spots all over the block. Freezing and thawing the tofu enhances its texture, allowing it to better absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Vegan Orange Chicken?
Leftover Vegan Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispy texture, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, flipping occasionally. This will help you avoid a soggy experience that often comes with microwaving.

Can I freeze leftover Vegan Orange Chicken?
Very! You can freeze the crispy tofu and orange sauce separately for up to 2 months. To do so, let the tofu cool completely after cooking, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. For the sauce, transfer it into a clean container once it has cooled down. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw the tofu and sauce in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a skillet.

What should I do if my tofu isn’t crispy?
One common issue is overcrowding the pan while frying. Ensure that there’s enough space between each tofu piece so hot air can circulate, promoting crispiness. If you’re using a baking method, arrange the tofu cubes on a single layer on the baking sheet. Additionally, make sure the tofu is well-coated in cornstarch, as this not only adds crunch but also helps form a lovely crust.

Are there any dietary considerations for this Vegan Orange Chicken?
Of course! This recipe is completely vegan, making it suitable for those following a plant-based diet. For gluten-free options, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce and substitute cornstarch with gluten-free flour. If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s always good to check ingredient labels, especially for sauces and syrups. And remember, while this dish is delicious for you, feed the extra tofu scraps to your dog (if they’re allowed) – many pets love it!

Can I make a spicy version of this Vegan Orange Chicken?
The more the merrier! Absolutely, you can amp up the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha into the orange sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust it to your heat preference. This will create a tasty balance between the sweet and spicy notes of the dish!