Orange Chicken
This Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a classic dish at home. With its crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce, this meal rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it brings vibrant flavors and comfort to your table. The unique blend of orange juice and zest gives it a refreshing twist that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This orange chicken can be made in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The double frying technique ensures that each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy while being smothered in a delicious sauce.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste preferences, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a takeout favorite from scratch, with fresher ingredients and no hidden additives.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or deep frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels or wire rack for draining
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or deep frying pan: These are essential for achieving even cooking and maintaining the right temperature of the oil.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and mixing sauces, allowing for easy preparation of ingredients.
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. 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. Then add the cornstarch and continue mixing until no dry cornstarch remains visible. Finish by adding the oil and mix again until evenly combined.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a wok or tall pan, pour about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat it until it reaches approximately 375°F.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
While waiting for the oil to heat up, prepare your orange chicken sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Set aside after mixing well.
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 by one until there’s an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Cook each batch for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing them from oil to drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally during frying to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Second Frying
Ensure that the oil returns to about 375°F before adding back all previously fried chicken pieces. Let them fry again for another 5 to 6 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack afterward.
Step 7: Make The Orange Chicken Sauce
In your wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once heated, stir in white parts of green onion along with minced garlic and chili peppers. Stir-fry these ingredients for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
Step 8: Cook The Sauce
Give your prepared sauce another good mix before pouring it into the wok with sautéed ingredients. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and thicker while stirring frequently.
Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into it. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.
Step 10: Serve
Serve immediately alongside white rice or fried rice garnished with sliced green onion tops. Enjoy this delightful homemade orange chicken!
How to Serve Orange Chicken
Serving orange chicken is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Here are some great ways to present and enjoy your delicious homemade dish.
With Steamed Rice
- Serve your orange chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
Accompanied by Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Add a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.
In a Lettuce Wrap
- For a fresh twist, serve orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and low-carb option!
With Noodles
- Pair your orange chicken with lo mein or rice noodles tossed in soy sauce. This adds another layer of flavor and texture.
Topped with Sesame Seeds
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving to add a nutty flavor and make the dish visually appealing.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh cilantro or basil can elevate the dish, providing aromatic notes that complement the orange flavors perfectly.
How to Perfect Orange Chicken
To achieve the best version of orange chicken, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out delightful every time you make it.
- Marinate properly – Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Maintain oil temperature – Keeping the oil at 375°F during frying ensures crispy chicken without excess grease.
- Double fry for crispiness – Frying the chicken twice gives it that perfect crunchy texture that you love from takeout.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh orange juice and zest elevate the sauce’s taste, making it more vibrant and flavorful.
- Stir frequently – While cooking the sauce, stirring often prevents it from sticking and ensures even consistency.
- Serve immediately – For the best taste and texture, serve your orange chicken right after cooking while it’s still hot.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
Orange chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fried Rice – Classic fried rice adds hearty grains and is easy to prepare with leftover rice.
- Egg Rolls – Crunchy egg rolls stuffed with vegetables or meat provide an enjoyable contrast in texture.
- Spring Rolls – Light and refreshing, spring rolls filled with shrimp or veggies can balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Cucumber Salad – A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar brings a refreshing crunch that cuts through sweetness.
- Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles tossed in soy sauce offer a delightful twist that complements the meal’s flavors well.
- Steamed Broccoli – Nutritious steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits without overpowering other flavors.
- Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic enhance the meal’s savory profile beautifully.
- Miso Soup – A light miso soup can round out your meal by adding warmth and umami notes that pair well with orange chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making orange chicken at home can be a delicious experience, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin the dish.
- Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Make sure to allow enough time for the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can reduce oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure crispy results.
- Ignoring oil temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature affects texture. Use a thermometer to maintain oil heat around 375°F.
- Not stirring the sauce: If you don’t stir frequently, the sauce can thicken unevenly. Keep an eye on it while cooking for best results.
- Serving cold: Orange chicken tastes best when served hot. Avoid letting it sit too long before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days.
Freezing Orange Chicken
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating Orange Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making orange chicken.
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken is a popular dish made with battered fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but they may not be as juicy. Thighs tend to retain moisture better during frying.
How can I make Orange Chicken healthier?
To make a healthier version, try baking the chicken instead of frying or use less sugar in the sauce.
What should I serve with Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with white rice, fried rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I adjust the spiciness of Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! You can reduce or increase the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This homemade orange chicken recipe is not only enjoyable but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give it a try and indulge in a dish that rivals your favorite takeout!
Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Orange Chicken is a delightful homemade version of the beloved Chinese takeout classic. This recipe features tender, crispy chicken coated in a luscious sweet and tangy orange sauce that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it combines vibrant flavors with comforting textures. In just 30 minutes, you can bring this restaurant-quality dish to your table, complete with customizable spice levels and fresh ingredients that make it healthier than takeout. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a satisfying meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
Instructions
- Marinate chicken thighs with water, baking soda, and salt for flavor and tenderness.
- Mix in eggs and cornstarch until well-coated.
- Heat oil in a wok to 375°F and fry chicken in batches until golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce by combining orange juice, zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Stir-fry garlic and green onions in the wok, then add the sauce until bubbly.
- Coat fried chicken pieces in the sauce and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
