Orange chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavor of oranges with crunchy, crispy chicken. Known for its sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is a favorite in many households and restaurants alike, providing comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or impressing guests, orange chicken offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Why We Love This Orange Chicken
This orange chicken recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the combination of tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy crust makes for an irresistible texture that perfectly complements the flavorful sauce. The sauce itself boasts an ideal blend of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken while adding a refreshing zest to the dish. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that still feels special. Moreover, you can enjoy it without the hassle of dining out, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. The vibrant color of the dish also brightens up your table, making it visually appealing. Overall, it brings a sense of joy to both the cook and the diners, creating memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients for Orange Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions
- Start by marinating the chicken pieces in the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for about 15-20 minutes. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor.
- Set up a breading station: place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing down slightly to ensure a good coating.
- In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce thickens, add the crispy chicken to the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve Orange Chicken
Serving orange chicken is a delightful experience that enhances the meal’s appealing taste and vibrant colors. Begin by plating the crispy, glazed chicken pieces on a large serving dish or individual plates. For an attractive presentation, consider creating a base layer of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. The rice not only complements the orange chicken perfectly but also soaks up the delicious sauce, enhancing each bite. Add a few steamed or sautéed vegetables, like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, around the chicken and rice for a pop of color and nutrition. Arrange the garnishes, such as sliced green onions and sesame seeds, over the chicken for an extra touch. If you want a themed dinner experience, consider pairing this meal with a side of Asian-style coleslaw or spring rolls. This makes your meal complete and ensures your guests enjoy a full culinary experience.
Expert Tips for Orange Chicken
Creating the perfect orange chicken requires a few expert tips to elevate your dish. First, ensure you use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor. Store-bought juice often lacks the freshness and brightness that real oranges provide. For optimal crispiness, double-dredging your chicken can help. After the initial breading, dip the chicken again in egg and breadcrumbs to create an extra crunchy coating. Next, if you prefer a lighter option, test air frying the chicken instead of deep frying. This method still gives you that delicious crunch with less oil. Experiment with the sauce ingredients too; adding a splash of vinegar can enhance the tanginess. Don’t forget to adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference, especially if you love a more balanced flavor. Lastly, serve the chicken immediately after tossing it in the sauce to maintain the crispiness of the coating. Following these tips will help you perfect your orange chicken every time.
How to Store Orange Chicken
Storing orange chicken properly extends its freshness and ensures you enjoy it later without compromising taste or texture. Cool any leftover orange chicken to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For optimal results, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately. This keeps the coating crispy for longer. If you anticipate keeping it longer, feel free to freeze the orange chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, ensuring there’s little air left before sealing. When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven or skillet to regain its crispness. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can make the coating soggy.
Variations of Orange Chicken
Exploring variations of orange chicken can add exciting twists to your culinary repertoire. One popular variation is using different proteins, like firm tofu, shrimp, or fish, offering flavors suited to dietary preferences. For a healthful twist, swap out the breading for a lighter panko version or opt for a gluten-free option. To introduce a bit of spice, enhance the base recipe by adding chili paste or sriracha to the sauce, providing a fiery kick. Another idea is to incorporate vegetables right into the dish. Adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the final cooking stage helps create a colorful, nutritious meal. If you’re looking for a unique serving option, try turning it into an orange chicken stir-fry with lo mein noodles. Toss the orange chicken with cooked noodles, fresh vegetables, and additional sauce for a hearty, flavorful bowl.
FAQ about Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a beloved dish, and many questions arise about its preparation and ingredients. One common question is whether orange chicken can be made in advance. Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time by breading and frying it. Store it separately from the sauce and reheat before serving. If you’re wondering how to adjust the sweetness of the sauce, you can easily add more sugar or substitute honey for a natural sweetener. People often ask if they can substitute the chicken with other proteins; absolutely! You can replace it with tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. Another frequently asked question involves the best side dishes to serve alongside orange chicken. Popular options include fried rice, steamed vegetables, or even a simple salad. These sides complement the bold flavors beautifully while balancing the meal.
Orange Chicken
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed is best
- 1 unit Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 unit green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for about 15-20 minutes.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
Breading
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs, pressing down to ensure coating.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, stirring until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the crispy chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!