Orange Chicken Recipe

When it comes to comforting, flavorful dishes, few can rival the allure of a well-made Orange Chicken. This vibrant dish combines crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy-sweet orange sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed veggies, this Orange Chicken Recipe provides a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests on special occasions.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The appeal of this Orange Chicken Recipe lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch. The sauce, made from fresh orange juice and zest, is both sweet and slightly tart, elevating this dish to new heights. Home cooks love that it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you want to indulge in a little something special.

Your Shopping Guide

To create this mouthwatering Orange Chicken, here’s what you’ll need to grab from the grocery store:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper – for seasoning
• 2 large eggs – beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – for coating
• 1/3 cup cornstarch – for extra crispiness
• Vegetable oil – for frying
• 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger – for flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for the sauce
• 3/4 cup fresh orange juice – the star of the sauce
• Zest of 1 orange – for extra citrusy goodness
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – to sweeten the sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds depth of flavor
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – for acidity
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes – optional, for a hint of heat
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – for thickening the sauce
• 2 tablespoons water – to dissolve the cornstarch

What’s in the Gear List

Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following kitchen essentials:

• Large mixing bowl – for coating the chicken
• Frying pan or wok – for frying the chicken
• Spatula – for flipping the chicken
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement
• Small saucepan – for preparing the sauce
• Whisk – for combining sauce ingredients

Orange Chicken Recipe Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken before it’s coated and fried.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

In one bowl, beat the two large eggs. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This two-step dredging process will ensure a crispy exterior when frying.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour and cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large frying pan or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (test by dropping in a small piece of chicken; it should sizzle), add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the fresh orange juice, add the orange zest, granulated sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. If desired, sprinkle in red chili flakes for a touch of heat.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, add the crispy chicken pieces to the saucepan and gently toss to coat every piece in the glossy orange sauce. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Your Orange Chicken is now ready to be served! Transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with additional orange zest or sliced green onions if desired. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

No-Store Runs Needed

If you’re in a pinch and need to whip up this delicious Orange Chicken without a trip to the store, check your pantry for these common substitutes:

• Use honey instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Substitute lemon juice for orange juice if you’re out of oranges.
• Rice vinegar can be replaced with apple cider vinegar if necessary.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.

Problems & Prevention

While making this Orange Chicken, you might encounter some common issues. Here’s how to prevent them:

• If the chicken isn’t crispy, ensure the oil is hot before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
• For a soggy coating, let the chicken rest on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
• For a burnt sauce, cook it on low heat and stir continuously to prevent sticking.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Orange Chicken tasting fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken after frying but before adding the sauce. Once cooled, place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a frying pan until warmed through. If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in the fridge and reheat when serving.

Quick Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your Orange Chicken. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for best results.

What can I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. Adding some sautéed vegetables on the side can balance the meal nicely.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red chili flakes to the sauce if you prefer a kick. Adjust the quantity to your taste!

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just combine them shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love this Orange Chicken, you might also enjoy these one-pan meal ideas:

• Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs – A sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles – A quick, flavorful noodle dish that’s sure to please.

See You at the Table

As you serve up this Orange Chicken, savor the vibrant colors and enticing aromas that fill your kitchen. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms the heart, creating a delightful dining experience for you and your loved ones. Enjoy every bite of this homemade treasure, and remember—there’s always room for seconds!

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