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This orange chicken is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together crispy tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It has all the right balance of flavors and textures to make dinner a memorable treat with every bite.
The first time I made this dish I was surprised how easily the sauce came together and how addictive the flavors were. It quickly became a go-to when I wanted something comforting but a little special.
Ingredients You Need
- Chicken breast: cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tenderness
- Cornstarch: to create a crispy coating that holds up well in the sauce& choose pure cornstarch for best results
- Salt and pepper: for simple seasoning that enhances natural flavors
- Cooking oil: with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying
- Fresh orange juice: for vibrant citrus notes& fresh squeezed is best though store-bought works
- Orange zest: to intensify the citrus aroma and add depth
- Soy sauce: for umami and balanced saltiness& opt for low sodium if preferred
- Brown sugar: adds sweetness and slight molasses flavor& packed firmly for accuracy
- Rice vinegar: delivers a mild tang that brightens the sauce
- Fresh garlic cloves: minced for aromatic depth
- Grated ginger: adds a warm and slightly spicy undertone
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Coat The Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place cornstarch in a bowl and dredge each piece until fully coated creating a crisp outer layer.
- Fry The Chicken:
- Heat enough oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to cover the bottom. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through which takes about three to four minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Prepare The Orange Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- Simmer The Sauce:
- Pour the sauce into the skillet used for frying after wiping excess oil. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Combine Chicken And Sauce:
- Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat evenly in the thickened orange sauce. Keep warm on low heat for a minute to let flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Present the orange chicken hot alongside steamed rice or your favorite Asian-inspired side dishes for a fulfilling meal.
I adore using fresh orange zest as it adds a bright punch that bottled juice cannot match. One time I doubled the ginger for a more intense spicy aroma and it became an instant hit with friends.
Smart Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days for freshness. Reheat gently in a skillet rather than microwave to preserve the crispy texture of the chicken. Sauce may thicken upon standing& add a splash of water when reheating if needed to loosen it.
Ingredient Variations
Try substituting chicken thighs for richer flavor and juiciness. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat kick. Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different type of natural sweetness.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every drop of sauce. Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for color and crunch. A crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar complements the rich orange chicken nicely.
This orange chicken recipe always brings a burst of joy to the table and encourages me to experiment more with balancing sweet and savory sauces in other dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into pieces is ideal for quick frying and even cooking.
- → How do I achieve a crispy texture on the chicken?
Coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch before frying in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
- → What gives the sauce its distinct orange flavor?
Fresh orange juice and zest combined with soy sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar create a bright, tangy-sweet glaze.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be simmered until it thickens to a glossy consistency that easily coats the chicken pieces.