Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone craving a delicious homemade dish that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. With its crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant sweet and spicy sauce, it’s an ideal choice for family dinners, special occasions, or when you just want to treat yourself. The balance of flavors makes this dish both comforting and exciting, ensuring it will become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This orange chicken recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
  • Flavorful Experience: The combination of orange juice, zest, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that bursts with freshness.
  • Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, or pair it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it great for gatherings or casual dinners.
  • Healthier Option: Making orange chicken at home gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to enjoy a healthier version compared to takeout.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Wok or deep pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or fork
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels (for draining)

Importance of Each Tool

  • Wok or deep pan: Ideal for frying and allows you to maintain high heat without spilling oil.
  • Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce efficiently.
  • Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing fried chicken from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces)
– ¼ cup water
– ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (fine salt is okay too)
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
– 1 cup orange juice (about 2 to 3 oranges juiced)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (use less if you prefer it less orange-y)
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (use more if your oranges are not as sweet)
– 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– ½ tablespoon garlic (minced (about 1 clove))
– ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes (or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper)
– 1 stalk green onion (thinly sliced (white and green separated))
– Whole dry chili pepper (optional)
– Oil (as needed for cooking)

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Thighs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Vigorously mix until the water is mostly absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs. Mix well until combined. Then add the cornstarch and ensure it’s evenly distributed with no dry cornstarch visible. Finally, add the oil and blend thoroughly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat until it reaches approximately 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While heating oil, prepare the orange chicken sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside; this can also be made ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot enough at around 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes then remove from oil to drain on paper towels for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Second Fry for Crispiness

Ensure that your oil returns to around 375°F before adding fried chicken back in for a second fry. Let them fry another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil again to drain on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Cook Aromatics

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook Sauce Until Ready

Give your prepared sauce a good mix before pouring it into the wok. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and thickened while stirring frequently.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When ready, add fried chicken pieces into the sauce mixture in the wok. Stir gently until every piece is evenly coated with sauce.

Step 10: Serve Your Dish

Serve immediately alongside white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green parts of green onion for extra flavor. Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just having a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your orange chicken experience.

With Steamed Rice

  • Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the orange chicken perfectly.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier option, serve your orange chicken with nutty brown rice which adds texture.

Over Fried Rice

  • Vegetable Fried Rice: Packed with colorful veggies, this dish enhances the meal and makes it more filling.
  • Egg Fried Rice: The addition of scrambled eggs brings extra protein and richness to your plate.

As a Wrap

  • Lettuce Wraps: For a fresh twist, serve orange chicken wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a crunchy bite.
  • Tortilla Wraps: Use soft tortillas for an easy-to-eat meal that’s great for lunch or dinner on the go.

With Noodles

  • Lo Mein Noodles: Toss your orange chicken with stir-fried lo mein noodles for a comforting noodle dish.
  • Rice Noodles: These gluten-free noodles provide a light base that absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.
OrangePin for later!

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Perfecting your homemade orange chicken can take some practice but following these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results.

  • Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate long enough to absorb all the flavors from the ingredients, enhancing its taste.
  • Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 375°F ensures that the chicken fries evenly and becomes crispy without absorbing too much oil.
  • Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying; this helps maintain consistent cooking and crispiness.
  • Stir Frequently: When cooking the sauce, stir it often to prevent burning and ensure even thickening for a glossy finish.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh oranges yield more flavorful juice and zest than bottled options, making your sauce vibrant and tasty.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or fewer chili flakes according to your preference for spiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors well.

  1. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried with soy sauce provides texture and nutrition.
  2. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup offers warmth and balance, making it an excellent starter before indulging in orange chicken.
  3. Chow Mein: Crispy noodles topped with veggies make a perfect accompaniment, adding crunch alongside your saucy main dish.
  4. Spring Rolls: These crispy appetizers filled with vegetables are light yet satisfying, ideal for starting off your meal.
  5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers dressed in vinegar complements the richness of orange chicken well.
  6. Sesame Broccoli: Steamed broccoli tossed with sesame seeds adds both color and health benefits while balancing out flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few mistakes to look out for:

  • Using low-quality chicken – Always choose fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best taste and texture. Avoid tough cuts or frozen chicken that may have been thawed improperly.

  • Not marinating long enough – Marinating the chicken helps infuse flavor and tenderness. Take time to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to achieve a delicious result.

  • Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lead to soggy results. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy and golden brown.

  • Ignoring oil temperature – The oil must be at 375°F for perfect frying. Use a thermometer to check the temperature; if it’s not hot enough, your chicken will absorb too much oil.

  • Skipping the second fry – A second fry is essential for achieving that crispy coating. Don’t skip this step; it enhances crunchiness and flavor.

  • Rushing the sauce preparation – Allowing the sauce to thicken properly ensures it clings beautifully to the chicken. Stir frequently as it cooks for an even consistency.

OrangePin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store orange chicken in an airtight container.
  • It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

  • Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe container.
  • It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and marinate the chicken. Just fry and combine when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Orange Chicken?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar or spice it up with additional chili flakes according to your taste preferences.

Is Orange Chicken healthy?

Homemade orange chicken can be healthier than takeout as you control ingredients and portion sizes. Opt for baking instead of frying for fewer calories!

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with white rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken recipe delivers all the delightful flavors you crave without needing takeout. Its versatility allows you to tweak ingredients based on your preferences, whether you want it sweeter or spicier. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is!

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Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken


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  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your home. This easy-to-make recipe features tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce that perfectly balances zest and warmth. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will impress with its delightful mix of textures and tastes. The best part? You can customize it to your liking while enjoying a healthier version compared to takeout. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ tablespoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes
  • Cornstarch (for coating)
  • Eggs (for marinating)
  • Oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of water, baking soda, and salt until absorbed.
  2. Add eggs and cornstarch to the chicken mixture, ensuring even coating.
  3. Heat oil in a wok to 375°F for frying.
  4. Prepare the sauce by mixing orange juice, zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
  5. Fry marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy, then set aside on paper towels.
  6. Stir-fry garlic and green onions before adding the sauce; cook until thickened.
  7. Combine fried chicken with the sauce and serve hot over rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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