Orange Chicken

When I think of comfort food, Orange Chicken instantly comes to mind. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange glaze. I remember the first time I tried making this dish at home; the aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my favorite Chinese restaurant. The perfect balance of flavors and textures in Orange Chicken always makes it a hit, no matter the occasion. I love serving it over a bed of fluffy rice, where the sauce seeps into every grain, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

Ingredients Required for Orange Chicken

Each ingredient in this Orange Chicken recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature flavor. From the vibrant zing of fresh orange juice to the warmth of ginger, these elements work together in perfect harmony. The star of the show, the chicken, becomes beautifully crispy when fried, providing a satisfying texture with every bite.

• 1 cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed juice will elevate the flavor profile.
• ⅓ cup sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the orange juice.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides a subtle acidity that enhances the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) – Adds a savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon ginger (fresh, minced) – Infuses warmth and aromatic notes.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Delivers an irresistible aroma and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon water – Helps to dissolve the cornstarch.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest – Intensifies the orange flavor.
• 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into small pieces) – The main protein source, perfect for frying.
• 2 eggs – Used for breading the chicken.
• ⅓ cup cornstarch – For dredging to make the chicken crispy.
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Helps to create a crunchy coating.
• oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – A lovely garnish that adds flavor and crunch.
• 2 green onions (finely chopped) – Adds a fresh finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Orange Chicken

Cooking Orange Chicken is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout.

1. In a medium saucepan, add the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about three minutes; the mixture should start to bubble and thicken slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. You’ll notice the sauce thickening as it cooks. Continue to simmer for another three minutes, then remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Set the sauce aside.

3. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour and cornstarch until well combined. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs. This will create a dredging station for your chicken.

4. Take the cut chicken pieces and dip them first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge them through the flour-cornstarch mix, ensuring that each piece is coated well. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

5. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add about two inches of oil and heat until it reaches 350℉. To test the oil, drop a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles, it’s ready. Working in batches, carefully add a few pieces of coated chicken at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about two to three minutes, turning the chicken often, until it’s golden brown and crispy.

6. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a plate or bowl lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all pieces are cooked.

7. When all the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared orange sauce over the chicken and gently toss until each piece is fully coated in the glaze. The vibrant color and aroma will make your mouth water!

8. To serve, garnish the Orange Chicken with sesame seeds and green onions. This adds a beautiful touch of color and crunch. Serve hot over rice or your favorite grain for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips about Orange Chicken

Cooking Orange Chicken is a delightful journey, and I’ve gathered some tips to help you nail this dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying it for the first time, these suggestions will ensure success.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid losing the chicken’s crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Serving Size: Adjust the serving size according to your needs. This recipe can easily be halved or doubled.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers or snap peas can add extra crunch and nutrition.
• Pairing: Serve your Orange Chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

What Goes Well With This Orange Chicken

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing for Orange Chicken. The rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, making every bite more flavorful.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Complement your meal with a colorful vegetable stir-fry. It adds nutrition and makes the plate visually appealing.
• Spring Rolls: Serve alongside fresh spring rolls for a delightful appetizer that keeps with the Asian theme.
• Salad: A light cucumber or Asian slaw salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even special occasions. It’s sure to impress!
• Seasonal Pairings: In warm months, consider serving Orange Chicken with a cool side salad, while during colder months, heartier sides like fried rice would be ideal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Orange Chicken is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any table. Its perfect balance of crispy chicken and fruity sauce creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. I encourage you to try making it at home; you won’t regret it!

Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Orange Chicken offers a delightful blend of crispy chicken and a sweet, tangy glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Make it tonight for a delicious meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup orange juice
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (fresh, minced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into small pieces)
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• for frying oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions (finely chopped)

Equipment

• COOKLOVER Nonstick Saute Pan Induction Skillet with lid 9.5 inch – Black

Method

 

1. In a medium saucepan, add the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about three minutes; the mixture should start to bubble and thicken slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. You'll notice the sauce thickening as it cooks. Continue to simmer for another three minutes, then remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Set the sauce aside.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour and cornstarch until well combined. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs. This will create a dredging station for your chicken.
4. Take the cut chicken pieces and dip them first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge them through the flour-cornstarch mix, ensuring that each piece is coated well. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.
5. In a heavy-bottomed pot, add about two inches of oil and heat until it reaches 350℉. To test the oil, drop a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles, it’s ready. Working in batches, carefully add a few pieces of coated chicken at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about two to three minutes, turning the chicken often, until it's golden brown and crispy.
6. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a plate or bowl lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all pieces are cooked.
7. When all the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared orange sauce over the chicken and gently toss until each piece is fully coated in the glaze. The vibrant color and aroma will make your mouth water!
8. To serve, garnish the Orange Chicken with sesame seeds and green onions. This adds a beautiful touch of color and crunch. Serve hot over rice or your favorite grain for a complete meal.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid losing the chicken's crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Serving Size: Adjust the serving size according to your needs. This recipe can easily be halved or doubled.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers or snap peas can add extra crunch and nutrition.
• Pairing: Serve your Orange Chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.