Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken recipe brings a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish features tender chicken pieces enveloped in a rich orange sauce. With its unique balance of flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: A perfect blend of sweet orange juice and savory soy sauce creates a taste sensation that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it over rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that adapts to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy chicken coated in a deliciously tangy sauce.
• Perfect for Occasions: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing your Orange Chicken. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Ensures even cooking while allowing for crispy chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the batter and sauce ingredients effectively.
• Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken is cooked safely and perfectly.
• Whisk: Makes mixing ingredients effortless, particularly when creating your batter.

Ingredients

This Orange Chicken recipe features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a tangy and sweet orange sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

For the Batter

• 3/4 cup flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/3 cup cold water (may need more to make batter thinner; add additional water slowly)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6-8 boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce

• Juice from 2 oranges
• Orange zest
• 5 tbsp sugar
• 5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 4 tbsp cold water
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

To start, make the batter by mixing together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and water. If you find the batter too thick, gradually add more water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the batter. Stir well until each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the battered chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and a meat thermometer reads that they are fully cooked.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix all ingredients for the sauce. Once combined, pour this mixture into a pan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer briefly before adding in the fried chicken pieces. Stir gently until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your delicious Orange Chicken hot off the stove. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for an irresistible meal!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving Orange Chicken is all about showcasing its vibrant flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious orange sauce.
• Fried Rice: Adds a bit of crunch and extra flavor, complementing the sweet and savory chicken.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the meal.
• Sesame Green Beans: These crunchy beans bring a nutty flavor that works well with the dish.

With Salads

• Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw with sesame dressing offers a refreshing crunch alongside the rich chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: Cool cucumbers provide a crisp contrast to the warm Orange Chicken.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Making perfect Orange Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh oranges for juice and zest will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
• Control Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) to achieve a crispy coating without overcooking the chicken.
• Let Sauce Thicken Gradually: Allowing time for the sauce to thicken enhances its richness without burning it.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Use fresh green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish for added texture and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing Orange Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider these options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce makes for a satisfying addition.
2. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice perfectly balances the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables add a delightful crunch to your plate.
4. Sweet Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides a sweet contrast to the savory dish.
5. Garlic Noodles: Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles are rich and comforting alongside Orange Chicken.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers umami flavors that complement the main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Orange Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few tips to help you succeed.

• Using the wrong chicken parts: Always use boneless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. Chicken breast can dry out easily, leading to a less enjoyable meal.

• Not measuring the sauce ingredients accurately: Precision is key in creating the right balance of flavors. Use measuring spoons and cups to ensure you add just the right amount of sugar and soy sauce.

• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy batter. Cook in small batches for crispy results.

• Skipping the orange zest: The zest adds a fragrant and fresh citrus flavor that enhances the overall taste. Don’t skip this step; it makes a significant difference!

• Not allowing the sauce to thicken properly: Patience is essential when cooking your sauce. Let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency before adding the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Place cooled Orange Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a little water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken is a popular dish made with bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s often served over rice or with vegetables.

Can I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

How spicy is Orange Chicken?

Traditional Orange Chicken is not very spicy; it’s more sweet and tangy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha for some heat if desired.

What can I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or sautéed vegetables. You could also serve it with noodles for a delicious twist.

How long does it take to make Orange Chicken?

The total time to prepare this Orange Chicken recipe is around 35 minutes, which includes prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will please any palate. Its versatility allows for various customization options, such as adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. We encourage you to try making this dish at home; it’s sure to become a family favorite!