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Homemade Orange Chicken photo

Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken is a must-try! Crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, it's the perfect comfort food!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to preference
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch for coating
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour for coating
  • Oil for frying choose a neutral oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • 2 green onions finely chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying pan or wok
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or tongs

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.