Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The crispy chicken pieces are enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce packed with vibrant orange flavors. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, this dish offers an incredible balance of taste and texture that will impress any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet orange juice and spicy chili flakes creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Customizable Options: Adjust the sweetness or spice level according to your preferences, making it a versatile dish for everyone.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it reheats well and stays delicious!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, Orange Chicken fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon or strainer
• Paper towels or cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or Deep Frying Pan: Ideal for frying chicken evenly due to its high sides and heat retention.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and combining ingredients without mess.
• Slotted Spoon or Strainer: Useful for safely removing fried chicken from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 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 Thighs

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: Prepare the Coating

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Then add cornstarch and mix until there are no dry bits left. Finish by adding oil and mixing thoroughly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the oil heats up, prepare your orange chicken 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

When the oil is hot enough at around 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Cook each batch for about 4 to 5 minutes. Once done, remove from oil and let drain.

Step 6: Double Fry for Crispiness

Ensure that the oil returns to around 375°F before adding fried chicken pieces back in for a second fry. Let them cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels.

Step 7: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In another wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. When hot, toss in white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10 to15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook the Sauce

Stir your prepared sauce again before pouring it into the wok with aromatics. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and thickened while stirring frequently.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When the sauce reaches desired thickness, add in fried chicken pieces. Stir well until each piece is coated evenly with that delicious sauce.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately alongside white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green parts of green onion for added freshness. Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that shines as the star of your meal. To elevate your dining experience, consider these creative serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and presentation.

With White Rice

• Fluffy white rice is a classic pairing, offering a neutral base that absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully.

Over Fried Rice

• For added flavor and texture, serve orange chicken over fried rice, incorporating vegetables like peas and carrots for extra color.

With Steamed Broccoli

• A side of steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch while complementing the dish’s vibrant orange hues.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves, allowing guests to create their own wraps with added veggies.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Place the orange chicken over noodles (like lo mein or rice noodles) for a hearty meal that satisfies.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a sharing platter with orange chicken alongside other favorites like egg rolls or dumplings for a complete Chinese feast.

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How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve the best homemade orange chicken, focus on these essential tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate well – Allow the chicken to marinate longer for deeper flavor absorption into the meat.
• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh oranges for juice and zest will provide a more vibrant taste compared to bottled juices.
• Maintain oil temperature – Keeping oil at 375°F ensures perfectly crispy chicken without being greasy.
• Double fry – A second fry gives the chicken an extra crunch that elevates its texture significantly.
• Stir constantly – When cooking the sauce, constant stirring prevents burning and promotes even thickening.
• Serve immediately – Enjoying the dish hot maximizes flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful experience.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fried Rice – A savory mix of rice, veggies, and eggs brings additional flavors and textures to your plate.
2. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp make for an enticing appetizer alongside your main dish.
3. Chinese Chopped Salad – A refreshing salad with crunchy cabbage and carrots provides a nice contrast to the sweet flavors of orange chicken.
4. Garlic Green Beans – Stir-fried green beans tossed in garlic offer a tasty and healthy complement with their slight crunch.
5. Egg Drop Soup – This light soup makes for an excellent starter that warms you up before diving into the main course.
6. Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles add an Asian flair and balance out the heat from your dish beautifully.
7. Cucumber Salad – A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of orange chicken.
8. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables are perfect for dipping in soy sauce alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people attempt to make orange chicken at home but often fall into common traps. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow time for the chicken to absorb the marinade ingredients.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, causing soggy chicken. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring temperature: Using oil that’s not hot enough can result in greasy chicken. Make sure your oil reaches 375°F before frying.
• Neglecting sauce preparation: Preparing the sauce while frying can lead to overcooked chicken. Make your sauce ahead of time for better timing and texture.
• Not adjusting sweetness: If your oranges are not sweet, you might end up with a less flavorful dish. Taste and adjust sugar as needed for balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Orange Chicken

• To freeze, let the orange chicken cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the orange chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the orange chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir-fry until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making orange chicken, here are some frequently asked questions that can help you out.

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese dish made from battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe is for orange chicken, you can substitute with shrimp or tofu for different variations.

How spicy is homemade Orange Chicken?

The spiciness depends on your choice of chili pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.

Can I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I know when my Orange Chicken is cooked?

The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken recipe brings all the flavors you love from takeout right into your kitchen. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize spice levels or even substitute proteins. Try it today and enjoy its delightful taste!