Orange Chicken
This Orange Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Chinese takeout dish. With juicy, marinated chicken thighs fried to crispy perfection and coated in a vibrant sweet and spicy orange sauce, this dish is perfect for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals. It brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your kitchen, making it an appealing choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy homemade Orange Chicken without fuss.
- Flavor Explosion – The blend of orange juice, zest, and spices creates a vibrant flavor that stands out.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish impresses every time.
- Crispy Texture – Double frying the chicken ensures a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of chili pepper flakes to match your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing this Orange Chicken requires some essential tools for the best results. Having these items ready will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or tall pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
- Slotted spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or tall pan – Ideal for frying as it allows even heat distribution while minimizing oil splatter.
- Mixing bowls – Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
The ingredients required for this delicious Orange Chicken are:
- 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: Add Eggs and Cornstarch
Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Next, add cornstarch and combine until no dry cornstarch is visible. Finish by adding oil and mixing evenly.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat it until it reaches around 375°F.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
While heating oil, prepare your orange chicken sauce. In a bowl or measuring cup, mix orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch well. Set aside.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
When oil is hot enough at around 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time in an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing to let drain for about 2 to 3 minutes while occasionally stirring.
Step 6: Second Frying Process
Ensure oil returns to around 375°F before adding fried chicken pieces back into the oil for a second fry. Fry for another 5 to 6 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack.
Step 7: Make the Orange Sauce Base
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: Combine Sauce with Chicken
Give your prepared sauce a good mix before pouring it into the wok. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until bubbly, thicker, and glossy—stir frequently to avoid uneven thickening.
Step 9: Coat Fried Chicken Pieces
When sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into the wok. Stir well until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.
Step 10: Serve
Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice and garnish with green parts of green onion. Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!
How to Serve Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways, enhancing its flavors and making your meal more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Steamed White Rice
- Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with orange chicken, absorbing the tasty sauce and balancing the dish’s flavors.
On a Bed of Fried Rice
- For an indulgent option, serve orange chicken on a bed of fried rice. The rich flavors of the fried rice complement the sweet and spicy chicken beautifully.
As Part of a Chinese Feast
- Include orange chicken in a larger spread of Chinese dishes. It works well alongside dumplings, spring rolls, and other favorites for a delightful feast.
Topped with Fresh Green Onions
- Garnishing your orange chicken with thinly sliced green onions adds a fresh crunch and enhances the dish’s presentation.
With a Side Salad
- A fresh side salad provides a crisp contrast to the savory orange chicken. Consider using mixed greens with sesame dressing for added flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a fun twist, serve orange chicken in lettuce wraps. This makes for an interactive eating experience and is perfect for gatherings.
How to Perfect Orange Chicken
To achieve restaurant-quality orange chicken at home, follow these helpful tips for an even better dish.
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Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances its flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the marinade.
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Use Cornstarch Wisely: Ensure that the cornstarch evenly coats the chicken before frying for extra crispiness.
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Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature consistent at 375°F while frying. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a perfect golden brown color.
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Double Fry for Crispiness: Frying the chicken twice creates an extra crispy texture that’s hard to resist. Don’t skip this step!
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Make Sauce Ahead: Preparing the sauce in advance saves time and allows you to focus on frying the chicken when ready to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
Serving side dishes alongside orange chicken can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options to consider:
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Fried Rice
A classic choice that adds flavor and additional texture, making it a perfect companion for orange chicken. -
Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a crunchy contrast that complements the saucy chicken nicely. -
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Colorful stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add nutrition and freshness to your plate. -
Egg Fried Rice
A variation of fried rice that includes eggs offers richness and pairs beautifully with sweet flavors from orange chicken. -
Steamed Broccoli
This healthy option adds color and balance, plus it’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish. -
Sesame Noodles
Cold sesame noodles provide a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor while remaining easy to prepare ahead of time. -
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet orange chicken, making each bite feel new. -
Chow Mein
Flavorful chow mein noodles provide additional carbs and pair well with the bold flavors of orange chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make simple mistakes when preparing orange chicken that can affect its taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Ensure you let the chicken absorb the marinade fully before frying.
- Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for crispy results.
- Not monitoring oil temperature: If the oil is too hot or not hot enough, it can ruin the frying process. Use a thermometer to maintain a steady 375°F.
- Ignoring sauce consistency: A properly cooked sauce should be bubbly and thick. Stir frequently to achieve that glossy finish without burning.
- Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Check your spices and condiments for freshness before use.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store orange chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Orange Chicken
- Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be kept for up to 2-3 months, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
Reheating Orange Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is orange chicken?
Orange chicken is a popular dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce.
How can I make orange chicken healthier?
You can bake the chicken instead of frying it, use less sugar in the sauce, or substitute some ingredients with healthier alternatives.
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While chicken is traditional, you could also use tofu or shrimp as alternatives for your orange dish.
What should I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with steamed white rice, fried rice, or mixed vegetables for a complete meal.
Is orange chicken gluten-free?
The traditional recipe isn’t gluten-free due to soy sauce and cornstarch. However, you can substitute with gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This homemade orange chicken recipe is not only delicious but also customizable. You can adjust flavors and spice levels according to your preference. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or an impressive dinner option, give this recipe a try!
Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible taste of homemade Orange Chicken, a delightful take on your favorite Chinese takeout. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated and fried to perfection, then coated in a vibrant, sweet, and spicy orange sauce that bursts with flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- Garlic and chili pepper flakes for flavor
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken thighs with water, baking soda, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix in eggs and cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a wok to 375°F and fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce by combining orange juice, zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Stir-fry garlic and green onions in wok; add the sauce and cook until thickened.
- Coat fried chicken pieces with the sauce and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
