Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that brings a little twist to your dinner table with its sweet, tangy flavor and crispy texture. This recipe features tender, juicy pieces of chicken coated in a vibrant orange sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. With its bright orange hue and aromatic notes, it’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also entices the eyes. Whether served over a bed of fluffy rice or paired with steamed vegetables, orange chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that transports you to your favorite Chinese takeout spot.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this orange chicken recipe for its incredible flavor profile and straightforward cooking process. The combination of fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and ginger creates a delightful sauce that perfectly complements the crispiness of the fried chicken. Plus, this dish can be made relatively quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend feasts. It’s also easily customizable to fit various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it without any hassle.
Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor; bottled juice lacks the vibrant taste.
- Make sure to pat the chicken pieces dry before coating with flour for a better crust.
- If time allows, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- For a lighter version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it; simply coat the chicken and place it on a baking sheet.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; aim for a golden-brown crust and juicy meat.
- Using too much cornstarch can result in a gummy texture; stick to the recommended amount.
- Not allowing the oil to heat sufficiently before frying can lead to greasy chicken; test the oil with a small piece before adding the rest.
- Skipping the marination step can result in less flavorful chicken; don’t rush this part!
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and marinating it in the sauce the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as it may separate while sitting.
Recipe Variations
- For a healthier twist, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for added moisture.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for extra nutrition.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- If you’re in the mood for something different, try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
How to Serve
Serve the finished orange chicken over a steaming plate of white or brown rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor. Adding a few slices of fresh orange on the side not only enhances presentation but also offers a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your orange chicken with a light and crisp Riesling or a refreshing iced green tea to balance the dish’s sweetness. For side dishes, consider serving it with stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad. For dessert, a light sorbet or fruit salad would complement the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or frying pan for frying the chicken.
- A mixing bowl for marinating the chicken.
- A whisk for mixing the sauce.
- A meat thermometer (optional) to check the chicken’s doneness.
Dietary Adaptations
- To make this recipe vegan, swap the chicken for tofu or seitan, and use plant-based soy sauce.
- For a nut-free version, ensure that any additional sauces or garnishes do not contain nuts.
- For a dairy-free adaptation, simply avoid any dairy-based sides or toppings.
Seasonal Adaptations
During winter, consider using blood oranges for a unique twist on flavor and color. In the summer, fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can be added to the sauce for a vibrant freshness.
Cost Breakdown
This orange chicken recipe is budget-friendly, costing around $10-$15 for the whole dish, depending on ingredient quality and local prices. By using frozen chicken or seasonal produce, you can make it even more cost-effective.
Kitchen Hacks
- To quickly peel ginger, scrape the skin with a spoon instead of using a knife.
- To prevent splattering when frying, use a splatter guard or gently lower the chicken pieces into the oil.
- If you have leftover oranges, zest them before juicing for added flavor in the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce? Tamari or coconut aminos are great alternatives for a gluten-free option.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken? It typically takes about 5-7 minutes per batch, depending on the size of the pieces.
How To Make orange chicken recipe
Orange Chicken
Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that brings a little twist to your dinner table with its sweet, tangy flavor and crispy texture.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Oil for frying
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the mixture until fully coated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Carefully drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Pour the orange sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Add the fried chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 439Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 96mgSodium 1254mgCarbohydrates 43gFiber 3gSugar 18gProtein 40g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making orange chicken at home is a rewarding experience that delivers all the flavors of your favorite takeout without the hassle. With its sweet and tangy sauce and crispy chicken, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!