Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a delicious orange chicken recipe? This dish is a delightful blend of crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking steps that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in soy sauce for about 10 minutes.
2. While marinating, prepare the orange sauce by mixing orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch until fully coated.
5. Fry the chicken in hot oil for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, pour in the prepared orange sauce and bring it to a simmer.
7. Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
8. Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor.
9. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, for a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Fresh orange zest can enhance the citrus flavor if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Orange chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with sautéed broccoli or bell peppers.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it for 1-2 minutes or warm it in a skillet over low heat. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much cornstarch can make the chicken overly thick; use just enough to coat.
- Not letting the oil heat sufficiently can result in soggy chicken.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; ensure it’s cooked until golden brown.
- Not stirring the sauce enough can lead to uneven flavor; mix well.
- Skipping the garnishing will miss out on fresh flavor; always add green onions.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh orange juice for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- For extra crunch, add chopped cashews or peanuts before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before marinating and cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
No, this orange chicken recipe is sweet and tangy rather than spicy. However, you can add chili flakes for heat if desired.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken goes well with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using less sugar, swapping for whole grain options, or increasing the vegetable content in your sides.
Conclusion
This orange chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. With its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, and savor every bite!
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the orange sauce by mixing orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the prepared orange sauce and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor.
- Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
