Irresistible Orange Chicken Recipe for Flavor Lovers

Orange chicken is a dish that tickles your taste buds with its sweet, tangy sauce and crispy coating. Imagine biting into succulent pieces of chicken, enveloped in a glossy orange glaze that dances on your palate. The aroma alone will make your mouth water, promising an explosion of flavors with every bite.

This delightful dish often reminds me of family gatherings where we would compete for the last piece, using our best puppy-dog eyes to win over the cook. Whether it’s a lazy weekend or a festive occasion, orange chicken brings people together in the most delicious way possible. Get ready to create an amazing flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Orange Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for this recipe; they provide tenderness and soak up the sauce beautifully.

• All-Purpose Flour: This gives the chicken that crispy outer layer; you can also substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

• Eggs: A couple of beaten eggs help the flour stick to the chicken for extra crunch.

• Vegetable Oil: For frying; don’t skimp here—good oil makes all the difference in achieving that golden-brown color.

For the Sauce:

• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds vibrant flavor; avoid bottled juice if you can for authenticity.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps manage salt levels while adding depth to the flavor profile.

• Brown Sugar: This balances the tanginess of the orange juice and contributes to that irresistible glaze.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic boosts flavor; I always say more garlic equals more happiness!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Orange Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps achieve that coveted crispiness when frying.

Step 2: Dredge in Flour

Set up a dredging station: one bowl with beaten eggs and another with flour mixed with salt and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg, then coat it thoroughly in flour.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat about half an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of batter; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Carefully add chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In another pan, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic over medium heat. Stir until well combined and simmer until slightly thickened—about five minutes should do!

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss your crispy fried chicken pieces gently in the sauce until fully coated. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy your homemade orange chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal! Your taste buds will thank you as they dance joyfully after every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in a zesty orange sauce while you prep your other ingredients. Sear the chicken for a golden crust, then toss in vegetables and finish with the remaining sauce, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a twist on this classic dish. Experiment with spices like ginger or even add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. Customize to your heart’s content!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

My first attempt at orange chicken was an epic kitchen adventure—my friend called me a “sauce magician” after I accidentally turned dinner into an explosion of flavors that had everyone asking for seconds!

FAQs:

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken is a popular dish that combines crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This delightful recipe features a blend of soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and fresh orange juice, making it a favorite for many. Often served over rice or noodles, it offers a delicious balance of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

How do you make Orange Chicken?

To make Orange Chicken, start by marinating chicken pieces in soy sauce and cornstarch. Then, fry the chicken until golden brown. For the sauce, simmer orange juice, sugar, garlic, and ginger until thickened. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce and serve hot. Pair it with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables to complete the meal.

Can I make Orange Chicken healthier?

Yes! You can make healthier Orange Chicken by baking or air frying the chicken instead of deep-frying it. Use less sugar in the sauce or substitute with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness. Additionally, serve it with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.

What can I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs well with various sides. Common options include steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. For an authentic touch, add egg rolls or dumplings to enhance your dining experience.

Conclusion for Orange Chicken:

In conclusion, Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy chicken with a flavorful orange sauce. It’s easy to make at home and can be customized to suit your health preferences. Whether you choose to fry or bake the chicken, this dish brings joy to any table. Enjoy serving it alongside rice or vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!

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Orange Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that marries crispy chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, making it an instant hit with family and friends. With its enticing aroma and vibrant colors, Orange Chicken not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a splash of excitement to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
2. Set up a dredging station with one bowl of beaten eggs and another with flour mixed with salt and pepper. Coat each piece of chicken in egg, then flour.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Fry chicken in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
5. In a separate pan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic over medium heat. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
6. Toss fried chicken in the sauce until thoroughly coated and serve over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg