Orange Chicken Recipe
Craving something sweet and savory? This orange chicken recipe is a perfect fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds! With crispy chicken coated in a tangy orange sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that brings restaurant-quality dining right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Green onions, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This nutritional value is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by heating oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
2. In one bowl, place the flour; in another, beat the eggs; and in a third, put the breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each piece of chicken in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
7. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it boils.
8. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry.
9. Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
10. Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until well coated.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option. If you prefer a gluten-free dish, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this orange chicken over steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. It also pairs well with fried rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until heated through. This dish can also be frozen; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and consumed within 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to ensure even cooking.
– Don’t skip coating the chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch.
– Be careful not to burn the sauce; keep stirring once it starts to thicken.
– Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for frying.
– Make sure to drain excess oil from the chicken to keep it crisp.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken in the sauce for extra flavor.
– Use fresh orange juice for the best taste.
– Garnish with sesame seeds for added texture.
– Experiment with adding vegetables to the sauce for more nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving.
Is orange chicken healthy?
While it’s not the leanest option, you can make it healthier by using less sugar and opting for chicken breast.
Can I use another citrus fruit?
Absolutely! You can substitute orange with lemon or lime for a different flavor profile.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this orange chicken recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish at home. With its crispy texture and vibrant sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it out for your next meal and savor the delightful flavors!
Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- In one bowl, place flour; in another, beat the eggs; and in a third, put breadcrumbs.
- Dip each piece of chicken in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it boils.
- Mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
- Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until well coated.
