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Orange Chicken Day

Celebrate Orange Chicken Day with a delicious homemade dish - the perfect combination of sweet and savory!

Wednesday

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJuly 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYGlobal Cuisines

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to get ready for Orange Chicken Day on July 15th! This delicious dish has been around since the late 1800s, when it was first created in Chinese restaurants. It is now a popular dish all over the world, with many variations from its original recipe. It is usually made with chicken chunks that are marinated, battered and deep-fried, tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. So why not celebrate this day with your friends and family by cooking up some tasty orange chicken?

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TIMELINE

Orange Chicken Day Timeline

Emergence of Orange Chicken

Originating from the late 1800s in Chinese restaurants, orange chicken becomes a favored dish known for its sweet and savory flavor.

Introduction to America

Orange chicken is introduced to America, gaining popularity particularly in Chinese-American communities during the early-mid 20th century.

Panda Express Launch

The fast food chain Panda Express is launched in the U.S. and soon after, orange chicken is added to the menu, increasing its popularity in the fast food industry.

Mainstream Recognition

By the mid-90s, orange chicken becomes a mainstream dish due to its inclusion in popular Chinese-American fast food menus across the country.

New Variations

In the new millennium, creative variations of orange chicken including grilled and baked variations start to appear, attracting a new wave of fans.

National Orange Chicken Day Initiation

The National Day Calendar declares July 15 to be National Orange Chicken Day, celebrated annually to honor this popular dish.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Orange Chicken Day

Make your own orange chicken

Using chicken, orange juice, orange marmalade, garlic, and ginger you can make your own orange chicken. Mix the ingredients together and coat the chicken in the mixture before baking or frying.

ORDER

Order orange chicken online

Many restaurants will offer online ordering for orange chicken, so you can get it delivered right to your door. Look for local restaurants that offer delivery or order from national chains like Panda Express.

TRY

Try a different twist on orange chicken

You don't have to stick to traditional recipes for orange chicken. Try a different twist by adding other ingredients like pineapple or bell pepper. Or take a fusion approach by adding some Mexican flavors like cilantro and jalapenos.

VISIT

Visit an Asian restaurant

Look up some Asian restaurants near you and try out their version of orange chicken. You may be surprised at the variety of flavors and spices they use to prepare the dish.

HOST

Host an orange chicken party

Invite your friends over for an orange chicken party! Have everyone bring their favorite side dishes, drinks, and desserts and enjoy a night of celebrating Orange Chicken Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Orange Chicken Day

Orange chicken is a great way to use up extra ingredients

Do you have some leftover cooked chicken or chops in your fridge? Not sure what to do with them? Make orange chicken! All you need are some pantry staples like soy sauce, honey, garlic and ginger and you'll have a tasty meal on the table in no time!

Orange chicken is delicious

It's hard to deny that orange chicken is a deliciously flavorful dish. The savory and sweet combination of the orange sauce, fried chicken and crunchy vegetables is simply irresistible! Plus, it's quick and easy to make - perfect for busy weeknights.

Orange chicken can be enjoyed in many different ways

Whether you enjoy it as part of a meal or as an appetizer, orange chicken lends itself to all sorts of creative recipes. You can use it to stuff tacos, make rice bowls, top salads or even dip fresh veggies into the orangey goodness!