Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken recipe is your ticket to enjoying a delicious homemade meal that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. With juicy, crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant sweet and spicy sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or impressing guests. The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives it a unique flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, making Orange Chicken at home is straightforward and quick.
• Flavor Explosion: The bright orange flavors combined with the savory chicken create an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying snack or main course.
• Healthier Option: Homemade means you can control the ingredients, making this a healthier alternative to greasy takeout.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress friends and family alike with its vibrant colors and delicious flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you begin. Having everything ready helps streamline the process and ensures you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for deep frying, allowing even heat distribution for perfectly crispy chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer: Helps drain excess oil from fried chicken without losing any pieces.

Ingredients

For this scrumptious Orange Chicken, you’ll need the following 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. Mix vigorously until the water is mostly absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has absorbed most of the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Next, add the cornstarch and blend until no dry cornstarch is visible. Finish by adding oil and mixing thoroughly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While waiting for the oil to heat up, prepare your sauce. In a bowl or measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

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. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown then let drain for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Second Fry

Ensure the oil returns to temperature at around 375°F before adding fried chicken pieces back for a second fry. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken

In a wok over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, toss in white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10 to15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Add Sauce

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

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When ready, add fried chicken pieces into the sauce mixture. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated with that delicious orange glaze.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Serve your homemade Orange Chicken right away with white rice or fried rice. Garnish with sliced green onion parts for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving orange chicken is all about balancing flavors and textures. The sweet and spicy notes of the sauce pair wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance the dining experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy white rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fried Rice: For added flavor, serve orange chicken with vegetable or egg fried rice.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Lightly sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and crunch.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple and healthy, steamed broccoli complements the dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, oniony kick.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To ensure your homemade orange chicken rivals your favorite takeout, keep these tips in mind:

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate long enough to absorb all the flavors for a tender bite.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F during frying for crispy results; too low can lead to soggy chicken.
• Double Fry: Frying the chicken twice creates an extra crispy texture that holds up well against the sauce.
• Stir Frequently: When cooking the sauce, stir often to prevent burning and ensure even thickening.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken; adjust sugar levels based on your oranges’ sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with vegetables enhances each bite of orange chicken.
2. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Aromatic jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the orange sauce.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds freshness and crunch.
5. Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles make for a delightful addition that complements the dish’s bold flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances out the richness of orange chicken with its crispness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and frying chicken can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold preparation: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.

• Bold oil temperature: Frying chicken at the wrong temperature can result in greasy or undercooked pieces. Always ensure the oil is around 375°F before adding the chicken.

• Bold overcrowding the pan: Adding too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to keep the heat consistent.

• Bold sauce consistency: Not mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly may lead to clumps or uneven flavors. Ensure all components are well-combined before pouring into the pan.

• Bold serving immediately: Letting fried chicken sit too long after cooking can make it soggy. Serve right away for the best texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

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

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding orange chicken:

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken is a popular dish made from crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s often served with rice.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless turkey, lamb, or even beef if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chilies into the sauce while cooking.

Can I prepare Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate and fry the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to prepare the sauce and combine them.

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs well with steamed white rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken recipe delivers all the flavor you crave without any takeout hassle! Its versatility allows you to customize spice levels and pairings according to your family’s preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dish today!