Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout! With its crispy chicken pieces and a vibrant orange sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fun gatherings. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweetness from orange juice and a hint of spice creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over white rice or fried rice for a complete meal that suits various preferences.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spice by tweaking the amount of chili pepper flakes, perfect for those who enjoy a little kick.
• Crispy Texture: The double-frying technique ensures that each piece of chicken is perfectly crunchy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this delicious Orange Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Slotted spoon or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying as it allows even heat distribution and prevents oil splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and preparing sauces without mess.
• Slotted spoon or tongs: Perfect for safely lifting the fried chicken out of hot oil without losing its crispiness.

Ingredients

This homemade orange chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The chicken pieces are marinated and deep fried to crispy golden perfection and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce full of orange flavors.

For the Chicken

• 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)

For the Orange Sauce

• 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

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: Mix in Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Then, add the cornstarch and ensure no dry cornstarch remains visible. Finish by adding the oil and mix evenly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat until it reaches approximately 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While heating oil, prepare your sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside; you can also prepare this ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken – First Round

When oil is hot enough, maintain it around 375°F. Gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing pieces to drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken – Second Round

Ensure oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken back into hot oil for a second fry. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain again on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

In another 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; cook until bubbly and thickened. Stir frequently to prevent uneven thickening.

Step 9: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Once sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into it. Stir well until all pieces are evenly coated in that delicious orange goodness.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Serve your Orange Chicken right away with white rice or fried rice. Garnish with sliced green parts of green onion for an extra touch!

Enjoy this delightful dish as it brings flavors reminiscent of classic takeout but made with love at home!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish with a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With White Rice

• White rice is a classic companion for orange chicken, providing a neutral base that balances the bold flavors of the dish.

Over Fried Rice

• Fried rice adds texture and flavor, making every bite of orange chicken even more satisfying. You can customize it with vegetables or shrimp for extra variety.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serving orange chicken on a bed of fresh greens offers a refreshing contrast. Try using spinach, arugula, or mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette.

In an Orange Chicken Bowl

• Create a complete meal by layering orange chicken with rice, roasted vegetables, and avocado in a bowl. This presentation is not only visually appealing but also deliciously hearty.

With Steamed Broccoli

• The slight bitterness of steamed broccoli complements the sweetness of the orange sauce beautifully, adding both color and nutrition to your plate.

As Part of a Platter

• Serve orange chicken alongside other dishes like spring rolls or dumplings for an enticing platter perfect for sharing during gatherings or celebrations.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To create the best orange chicken at home, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh oranges for juice and zest enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to bottled alternatives.
• Double Fry the Chicken: Frying the chicken twice achieves that coveted crispy texture. Make sure to let it rest between fries for optimal crunchiness.
• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: Taste your sauce before adding it to the chicken. If your oranges are less sweet, you may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 375°F before frying. Maintaining this temperature is key for properly cooking the chicken without absorbing too much oil.
• Experiment with Spices: If you enjoy heat, add more chili flakes or even fresh ginger to your sauce for an exciting twist on flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Complementing your orange chicken with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful mix of rice stir-fried with vegetables and proteins offers a hearty side that pairs well with the sweet notes of orange chicken.
2. Steamed Vegetables
   A colorful medley of steamed carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers adds nutrients and freshness to your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A crisp cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of orange chicken.
4. Egg Rolls
   Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp make an excellent appetizer or side that complements Asian flavors well.
5. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and citrus dressing brings additional protein and fiber while keeping things light and zesty.
6. Miso Soup
   Warm miso soup offers comforting flavors that round out your meal nicely while maintaining an Asian theme.
7. Spring Rolls
   Fresh spring rolls filled with vermicelli noodles and veggies serve as a light yet flavorful addition to your dining experience.
8. Garlic Noodles
   These savory noodles tossed in garlic butter perfectly balance the sweetness of your orange chicken while adding another layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Don’t skip this step; allow enough time for the flavors to develop.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches to ensure crispy texture.
• Not checking oil temperature: If the oil is too hot or not hot enough, it can affect frying quality. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 375°F for optimal frying.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: A sauce that is too thin won’t coat the chicken well. Make sure to cook it until bubbly and thicker for better adhesion.
• Using old oil: Old or reused oil can impart off-flavors and affect crispiness. Always use fresh oil for frying.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh garnishes like green onions can make your dish less visually appealing and flavorful. Don’t forget this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze the orange chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, often served with rice.

Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just fry right before serving for best results.

Is Orange Chicken spicy?

The spiciness of orange chicken can vary based on personal preference. You can adjust chili pepper levels when preparing the dish.

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice, and you can also add stir-fried vegetables as sides.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you want something different while retaining that delicious orange flavor.

How do I customize my Orange Chicken?

Feel free to adjust ingredients like sugar levels, add more veggies, or experiment with different spices based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This orange chicken recipe combines delightful flavors with crispy textures, making it perfect for dinner or lunch. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your taste—try adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this homemade version a try; you may find it becomes your new favorite!