Orange Chicken
There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, and Orange Chicken brings all of that to the table. This beloved dish, often found in Chinese takeout menus, can easily be recreated in your own kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without ever having to leave home. Imagine crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s comfort food at its finest, and once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This Orange Chicken recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about ease and convenience. Here are a few compelling reasons why this dish will become a staple in your cooking repertoire:
- Quick Preparation: With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Family Favorite: The sweet and tangy sauce appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit for family dinners.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for an extra crunch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers are just as tasty, making this a great option for meal prep.
What Goes In
The best part about making Orange Chicken at home is that you know exactly what goes into it. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for maximum flavor.
- ½ cup sugar: This will balance the acidity of the orange juice.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a tangy depth to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavor without being overly salty.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced): Brings warmth and spice to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat; adjust to your preference.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: To thicken the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: To mix with cornstarch.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into small pieces): The star of the dish.
- 2 eggs: For battering the chicken.
- 1 cup cornstarch: For coating the chicken to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: To combine with cornstarch for the coating.
- Oil (for frying): Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a touch of nuttiness.
- 2 green onions (finely chopped): For garnish and a fresh crunch.
Tools & Equipment Needed
To make the cooking process smoother, gather the following tools:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the chicken with the batter.
- Whisk: To mix the wet ingredients and batter.
- Frying pan or wok: For frying the chicken; a deep fryer works too.
- Saucepan: To prepare the orange sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula or tongs: For flipping the chicken while frying.
Orange Chicken in Steps
Now, let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Orange Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest. Set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it in the cornstarch-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Combine with Sauce
Once all the chicken is fried, return it to the skillet over low heat. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the orange chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
Smart Substitutions
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some smart substitutions:
- Orange Juice: Substitute with tangerine or grapefruit juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Sugar: Use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener option.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be a suitable alternative.
- Chicken: Tofu or tempeh works well for a vegetarian version.
Notes on Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients can elevate your dish:
- For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
Best Ways to Store
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them:
- Place the leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- When reheating, consider using the stovetop for better texture instead of the microwave.
Handy Q&A
Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just combine them right before serving for the best texture.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! To bake, coat the chicken as instructed and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
What can I serve with Orange Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry. You can also serve it with a side of spring rolls for a complete meal.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
That’s a Wrap
Orange Chicken is a dish that brings joy to the table, whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its balance of sweet and savory flavors and a satisfying crunch, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to whip up a delightful meal that will impress everyone around your dinner table. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, indulge in the deliciousness of homemade Orange Chicken!
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat it in the cornstarch-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Heat oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
- Once all the chicken is fried, return it to the skillet over low heat. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Serve the orange chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
Notes
- Opt for freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
