If you’re looking for a delectable dish that combines the zest of oranges with tender chicken, this Orange Chicken Recipe is your answer. This dish is popular for its sweet yet tangy flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying. The bright colors and inviting aroma will have everyone gathering around the table in no time. You can whip up this meal in just about 30 minutes using simple ingredients found in your pantry. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also delivers on taste and presentation. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce bold flavors into your cooking repertoire without needing extensive culinary skills or experience.
This Orange Chicken Recipe is versatile enough to serve as a main course during family dinners or casual get-togethers. Pair it with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. You can even customize the sauce to suit your taste preferences by adjusting sweetness or adding chili flakes for some heat. One bite of this succulent chicken coated in a sticky orange glaze will transport you to your favorite Chinese restaurant, right from the comfort of your home.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Orange Chicken Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crispy coating on the chicken when frying
- Eggs: Beaten eggs help the flour adhere better to the chicken pieces
For the Sauce:
- Fresh Orange Juice: Use freshly squeezed juice for optimal flavor; bottled juice may not provide the same freshness
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Sugar: Granulated sugar balances out the acidity of the orange juice
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Orange Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In one bowl, beat two eggs; in another bowl, place all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken first into the beaten eggs and then coat it thoroughly with flour. Set aside on a plate while you preheat your pan.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil until it’s hot enough for frying (about 350°F or175°C).
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove them from oil and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In another pan over medium heat, combine fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers slightly.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Add fried chicken back into the sauce pan; toss well until coated evenly. Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Crispy Texture: For extra crispiness, double fry the chicken; fry once at lower temperature then again at higher temperature just before serving
How to Serve Orange Chicken Recipe
This Orange Chicken Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken by marinating it in advance. Allow at least 30 minutes for marination. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
- Storing: Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for an Orange Chicken Recipe?
To make a delicious orange chicken recipe, you will need several key ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, which provide the perfect meat base. For the coating, use all-purpose flour and cornstarch to achieve that crispy texture. The sauce is where the magic happens; you’ll need fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients combine to create a sweet and tangy flavor profile that elevates your dish. Don’t forget essential spices like salt and pepper for seasoning. Optional items include green onions for garnish and sesame seeds to add a touch of crunch. With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to whip up an incredible orange chicken recipe that will impress your family and friends.
How long does it take to prepare the Orange Chicken Recipe?
The total time required to prepare your orange chicken recipe is approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This includes about 15 minutes for prep work, where you’ll cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and gather your ingredients. Next, allow around 15 to 20 minutes for cooking time. During this phase, you’ll fry the chicken until it’s golden brown and cook the sauce until it thickens beautifully. If you’re serving rice or other sides, factor in additional cooking time for those as well. Overall, you can expect a quick and efficient cooking experience with this recipe, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Can I modify the Orange Chicken Recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily modify your orange chicken recipe to accommodate various dietary restrictions. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, consider using honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners in your sauce. For those who prefer vegetarian options, tofu works as an excellent substitute for chicken; just ensure it’s pressed and cubed properly before frying. With these adaptations, you can enjoy a delightful orange chicken recipe that meets your dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
What sides pair well with Orange Chicken?
When serving your orange chicken recipe, consider pairing it with complementary sides that enhance the overall meal experience. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice are classic choices that soak up the savory sauce perfectly. You might also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy for added nutrition and color on your plate. A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the dish nicely. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with quinoa or noodles tossed in sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist on classic sides. Each of these options complements your orange chicken recipe beautifully.
How should I store leftover Orange Chicken?
Properly storing leftover orange chicken ensures you can enjoy this dish later without sacrificing taste or quality. Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them; they can last in the freezer for up to three months when kept in a sealed container or freezer bag. To reheat frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the fridge before warming them on medium heat on the stovetop or in a microwave until heated through completely. Following these steps will help maintain the delicious flavors of your orange chicken recipe.
Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing your orange chicken recipe ahead of time is not only possible but also convenient if you’re hosting guests or planning meals for busy weeks ahead. You can marinate the chicken pieces in advance by combining them with salt, pepper, and half of the sauce ingredients—this enhances their flavor while keeping them tender when cooked later on. Cooked orange chicken can also be made ahead; just allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freezing it for later use. Reheating is simple; just ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving again.
Conclusion :
In summary, crafting a mouthwatering orange chicken recipe is both straightforward and rewarding. With easy-to-find ingredients like fresh oranges and tender chicken pieces combined with simple cooking techniques such as frying and saucing, you can create a dish bursting with flavor in no time at all! Additionally, adapting this recipe accommodates various dietary preferences without losing its essence allows more people to enjoy it together around one table—the heart of home cooking! Remember that pairing this delightful dish with suitable sides enhances its appeal even further while storing leftovers properly keeps everything fresh! Whether you’re preparing dinner during busy weekdays or planning an enticing weekend feast—this orange chicken recipe is sure to impress everyone served!
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Orange Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this easy-to-make Orange Chicken Recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious dish featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress friends and family with their culinary skills. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal that delights the senses.
Ingredients
- 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup allpurpose flour
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup lowsodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. In one bowl, beat eggs; in another, season flour with salt and pepper.
2. Dip chicken pieces into eggs, then coat with flour. Set aside.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. In another pan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic over medium heat until simmering.
6. Add fried chicken to the sauce; toss to coat evenly before serving.
Notes
– For extra crispiness, consider double frying the chicken.
– Customize by adding chili flakes for heat or adjusting sweetness to your taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
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