Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, sweet and spicy sauce, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving takeout, this recipe provides all the flavor without the fuss of ordering in. The standout feature is its fresh orange flavor, which elevates this classic dish to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The double frying method ensures your chicken remains crispy even after being tossed in sauce.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh orange juice and zest gives this dish a bright and zesty flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with white rice, fried rice, or even noodles for a complete meal that pleases everyone.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your preferred spice level, making it suitable for all palates.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Orange Chicken recipe, gather your tools and prepare the workspace to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying chicken; allows for even heat distribution and minimizes oil splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing sauces—help keep everything organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

This homemade orange chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The chicken pieces are marinated and deep fried to crispy golden perfection and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce full of orange flavors.

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: Prepare the Marinade

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water:
Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
Incorporate cornstarch until no dry cornstarch is visible.
Finish by adding oil and mixing until evenly combined.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan:
Add about 2 to 3 inches of oil.
Heat the oil until it reaches 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

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

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot:
Maintain heat around 375°F.
Gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary.
Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove chicken from oil and let drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 6: Double Fry for Crispiness

Ensure that oil returns to 375°F before frying again:
Add fried chicken back into hot oil for another fry.
Fry for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

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 the Sauce

Give prepared sauce a good mix:
Pour it into the wok while increasing heat to medium-high.
Cook until bubbly, thicker, and glossy while stirring frequently to prevent uneven thickening.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When sauce is ready:
Add fried chicken pieces into wok.
Stir and toss until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 10: Serve Your Orange Chicken

Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice:
Garnish with green parts of green onion. Enjoy!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this tasty dish that will impress your family and friends.

With Steamed White Rice

• Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with orange chicken, soaking up the delicious sauce. Use jasmine or basmati rice for added fragrance.

On a Bed of Fried Rice

• Serve orange chicken on top of fried rice for a complete meal. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a favorite among diners.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Consider serving orange chicken alongside sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, wrap orange chicken in a tortilla with fresh lettuce and veggies. This makes for an easy and portable meal option.

As Part of a Platter

• Create an Asian-inspired platter with orange chicken, spring rolls, and dumplings. This is great for entertaining guests or family gatherings.

With Noodles

• Pair the orange chicken with stir-fried noodles. The noodles complement the sauce’s sweetness while adding texture to your meal.

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How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To ensure your homemade orange chicken tastes restaurant-quality, follow these handy tips.

• Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F during frying. This ensures crispy chicken without excess grease.

• Double fry technique: Frying the chicken twice gives it that extra crunch and prevents sogginess when coated in sauce.

• Stir frequently: When cooking the sauce, stir often to achieve an even thickness and prevent burning.

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest will provide vibrant flavors that enhance your dish significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

When serving orange chicken, consider these delicious side dishes to complete your meal.

1. Fried Rice – A classic choice, fried rice is flavorful and complements the sweet tang of orange chicken perfectly.

2. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch and contrast to the soft texture of orange chicken.

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry – A colorful stir-fry with seasonal vegetables brings freshness and balance to your meal.

4. Chow Mein – These stir-fried noodles are savory and satisfying, making them an excellent pairing with this dish.

5. Miso Soup – A light miso soup can cleanse the palate between bites of rich orange chicken.

6. Asian Slaw – A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots offers crunch and brightness alongside your main dish.

7. Crispy Potstickers – These dumplings add another layer of flavor and texture while being easy to share.

8. Steamed Dumplings – Soft steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables pair beautifully with orange chicken for a hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Ensure you give it enough time to soak up the seasonings.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain crispiness.
• Not using a thermometer: Cooking at the right temperature is crucial for crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 375°F.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: The sauce should be bubbly and thick. Stir it frequently while cooking to achieve a glossy finish without lumps.
• Serving too late: Orange chicken is best served immediately after cooking. Delaying serving can result in soggy textures.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Place cooled orange chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section answers some common inquiries about orange chicken.

How can I make orange chicken healthier?

You can bake the chicken instead of frying it for a lighter version. Use less sugar in the sauce and add more veggies for added nutrition.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.

What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice, as well as stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I store leftover orange chicken?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is orange chicken gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and check that your cornstarch is gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken is deliciously satisfying and far better than takeout. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness according to your taste preferences!