Chinese Orange Chicken

If you’re craving a flavorful dish that’s both tangy and sweet, Chinese Orange Chicken is a must-try! This crispy, golden chicken coated in a deliciously vibrant orange sauce offers a perfect blend of flavors that will transport you to your favorite Chinese restaurant. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

What is Chinese Orange Chicken?

Chinese Orange Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, featuring chicken that’s battered, fried, and then tossed in a sweet, citrusy sauce made from orange juice, zest, soy sauce, and other savory ingredients. The dish has a perfect balance of flavors, with a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. The sauce, which is tangy, sweet, and a little bit salty, makes this dish a fan favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The chicken is coated in a light batter, fried to golden perfection, and maintains a crispy texture even after being coated in the sauce.
• Bold Flavors: The sweet and tangy orange sauce is the star of the dish, with just the right amount of acidity and sweetness. The addition of soy sauce and garlic enhances the depth of the flavors.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its rich flavors, Chinese Orange Chicken can be prepared in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or acidity of the sauce to suit your preferences, and even add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Ingredients for Chinese Orange Chicken

• For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the Orange Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Make Chinese Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. Cut your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. In one bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches, ensuring each piece is golden brown and crispy. After frying, place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

For the sauce, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water), garlic, and ginger in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency. If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, add the crispy chicken pieces into the sauce. Toss the chicken until each piece is well-coated with the tangy orange glaze. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Chinese Orange Chicken immediately over steamed white rice or fried rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the burst of sweetness and savory goodness with every bite!

Tips for the Best Chinese Orange Chicken

• Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the sauce a much more vibrant and natural flavor compared to store-bought juice.
• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier chicken, fry the chicken pieces twice. This will give it a crunchier texture that stands up well to the sauce.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar or increase the vinegar slightly for more tang.
• Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.

Why Make Chinese Orange Chicken at Home?

Making Chinese Orange Chicken at home allows you to customize the dish to your liking, and it’s a healthier option compared to takeout. You can control the amount of sugar and oil used, and it’s a fun way to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Conclusion

Chinese Orange Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone craving something sweet, tangy, and savory. With its crispy chicken and flavorful orange sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, grab some fresh oranges and get cooking — this recipe is bound to impress!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chinese Orange Chicken

Serving Tips:

• Serve with Rice: The most common and delicious way to serve Chinese Orange Chicken is over steamed white rice, which complements the sweet and tangy sauce. You can also serve it with fried rice for an added flavor boost.
• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: To elevate the dish visually and add extra flavor, garnish the chicken with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or even a few slices of fresh orange for a pop of color and citrusy aroma.
• Pair with Vegetables: For a well-rounded meal, pair the chicken with sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. These add color, texture, and additional nutrients.
• Make it a Complete Meal: For a more filling dinner, serve alongside egg rolls, dumplings, or wontons to create a full Chinese-inspired feast.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chinese Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help preserve the flavor and texture of the chicken.
• Freezing: If you have a large batch and want to store it longer, you can freeze the chicken. Place the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Reheating: When reheating leftovers, be sure to do so gently to prevent the chicken from becoming too soggy. Reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but make sure to cover the container to retain moisture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Chinese Orange Chicken for days to come while maintaining its delicious flavors!

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Chicken breasts will work just as well, although they tend to be leaner and may be slightly less tender. Be sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, simply reheat it on the stovetop before tossing it with the fried chicken.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like some heat, you can add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or sriracha sauce to the orange sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference. Adding a few sliced fresh chilies to the sauce will also give it an extra kick.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Chinese Orange Chicken gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure the cornstarch is also gluten-free, as some varieties may contain wheat.

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