Chinese Orange Chicken Orange is a delightful dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange glaze with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This dish brings the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it combines the crunch of fried chicken with a luscious orange sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about convenience and satisfaction. Here are six reasons why you’ll adore this dish:
- Quick and Easy: It can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Texture: The chicken is fried to golden perfection, giving it a satisfying crunch.
- Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The combination of orange juice and sugar creates the best orange chicken sauce.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice or alongside veggies like broccoli for a complete meal.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy a takeout-style dish made in your own kitchen.
- Family Favorite: This easy orange chicken dish is sure to please both kids and adults.
Ingredients for Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
Gather these items:
- 1 lb Chicken Thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
How to Make Chinese Orange Chicken Orange Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Coat chicken pieces in cornstarch and ensure they are well-covered.
- Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot, add chicken pieces, and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Step 3: In a separate pan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Step 4: Add the crispy chicken back into the sauce, toss to coat, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure the chicken is dry before coating with cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- For a healthier alternative, consider using air-fried chicken instead of deep-fried.
- Serve with steamed rice or orange chicken with broccoli to balance the flavors.
Best Ways to Serve Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
This delectable dish can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Serve over fluffy rice for a complete meal.
- Pair it with vegetables like broccoli for a nutritious option.
- Try it in a wrap or alongside your favorite Asian noodles for a unique twist.
How to Store and Reheat Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish also makes great orange chicken meal prep ideas for your weekly lunches!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Orange Chicken Orange
What’s the secret to perfect Chinese Orange Chicken Orange?
The secret lies in the frying technique. Ensure the oil is hot enough so the chicken becomes crispy without absorbing too much oil. The best orange chicken sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken without being too runny.
Can I make Chinese Orange Chicken Orange ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just fry the chicken and mix it with the sauce when ready to serve. This makes for an easy meal prep option.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chinese Orange Chicken Orange?
To avoid soggy chicken, make sure to drain the fried pieces well before adding them to the sauce. Also, don’t skip the cornstarch coating; it’s essential for achieving that crispy texture.
Variations of Chinese Orange Chicken Orange You Can Try
Here are some creative variations:
- Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken: Mix in some pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Healthy Orange Chicken Alternatives: Use baked chicken instead of fried for a lighter dish.
- Orange Chicken Takeout Style: Create a family-style serving with extra sauce for dipping.
Delicious Chinese Orange Chicken Orange Recipe to Savor
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange glaze with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
Instructions
- Coat chicken pieces in cornstarch and ensure they are well-covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot, add chicken pieces, and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate pan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Add the crispy chicken back into the sauce, toss to coat, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying and Simmering
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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