Orange Chicken Recipe

Name: Orange Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); 1 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon ginger (grated); Salt and pepper to taste

Looking for a dish that brings both sweetness and a hint of tang? This orange chicken recipe is just what you need! With crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce, this meal is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 320 calories, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein. This is based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in soy sauce for 10 minutes.
In one bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and set aside.
Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the eggs, and back into the flour.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Remove chicken and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch; cook until thickened.
Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breast with thighs for a juicier option. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of regular flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Serving and Pairings

Orange chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove. It can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in less flavor.
Using too high heat can burn the coating before the chicken cooks through.
Overcrowding the skillet will steam the chicken instead of frying it.
Not letting the sauce thicken can make it watery.
Skipping the paper towel step will leave the chicken greasy.

Helpful Tips

For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the flour.
Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
Adjust the sugar to taste based on your sweetness preference.
Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for added flair.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking for even results.

What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the chicken just before serving.

Is orange chicken healthy?

While it can be indulgent, you can make it healthier by using less sugar and opting for baked chicken instead of fried.

Conclusion

This orange chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. With its sweet and tangy sauce coating perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Give it a try and bring a taste of the tropics to your table!