Orange Chicken Recipe
Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? This orange chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. With its crispy chicken and zesty orange sauce, it’s an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 400 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, and 45g carbohydrates. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Dip the coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, pour in the orange sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this orange chicken over steamed rice or noodles. It pairs beautifully with sautéed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the cornstarch coating for crispy chicken.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if necessary.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your taste preference.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a nice presentation.
- Experiment with adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I make orange chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving for best results.
Is orange chicken spicy?
No, traditional orange chicken is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles and is complemented by stir-fried vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
How long does leftover orange chicken last?
Leftover orange chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This orange chicken recipe is not only easy to follow but also delivers a delightful explosion of flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy this sweet and tangy treat that’s sure to become a favorite!
Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Dip the coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, pour in the orange sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
- Add the chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
