Indulge in a mouthwatering orange chicken recipe that delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. This dish features crispy chicken coated in a luscious orange sauce, bringing a taste of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone wanting more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (for sauce)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 400 calories, 18g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 30g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in soy sauce and ginger for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, coat the marinated chicken with cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then place in the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
- Return the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
For a healthier version, you can substitute chicken breast with tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, honey can be used instead of sugar for a natural sweetener. If you prefer a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce.
Serving and Pairings
This orange chicken is best served with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. You can also pair it with stir-fried vegetables to add a nutritious touch. A side of fresh spring rolls complements the meal beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much oil can make the dish greasy.
- Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan while frying can cause uneven cooking.
- Not allowing the sauce to thicken properly may result in a watery dish.
- Using old oil can affect the taste of the chicken.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, double fry the chicken pieces.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before adding the chicken to maintain crispiness.
- Experiment with adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before marinating and cooking for the best results.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
Pair it with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick of heat that complements the sweetness of the orange.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat before adding to the chicken.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, orange chicken is great for meal prep! Just store it in portioned containers and reheat as needed throughout the week.
Conclusion
This orange chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends. With its crispy chicken and tangy sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs beaten
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for sauce
- 1 tablespoon water for sauce
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in soy sauce and ginger for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, coat the marinated chicken with cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then place in the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened.
- Return the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.