Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken tastes just as good, if not better than your favorite Chinese takeout! With its crispy chicken pieces and a sweet, tangy sauce bursting with orange flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, ensuring you can enjoy this classic dish whenever the craving strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double frying technique ensures that each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest creates a vibrant taste that elevates this dish beyond typical takeout.
• Quick and Simple: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your spice preference—make it mild or fiery!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made in advance and reheats well, making it ideal for meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Orange Chicken experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: This allows for even heat distribution when frying, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce without mess.
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer: Helps to easily remove fried chicken from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain away.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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)

For Cooking

• 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 Mixture

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water:
1. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
2. Following that, add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no more dry cornstarch visible.
3. Finally, add in the oil and mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While waiting for the oil to heat up:
1. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Mix well and set aside. You can also prepare this sauce ahead of time if desired.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot:
1. Maintain heat around 375°F.
2. Carefully place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer; avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for about 4-5 minutes then remove from oil and let drain for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up any stuck pieces.

Step 6: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness

Ensure oil temperature returns to 375°F before frying again:
1. Add fried chicken back into hot oil for a second fry.
2. Fry an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove from oil; let drain on paper towels or a cooling rack.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

In a clean wok or large pan over medium heat:
1. Add a small amount of oil; once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers.
2. Stir fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook Sauce Until Thickened

Give prepared sauce a good mix before pouring it into the wok:
1. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and glossy while stirring frequently to avoid uneven thickening.

Step 9: Toss Chicken in Sauce

When sauce reaches desired consistency:
1. Add fried chicken pieces into wok.
2. Stir and toss until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice garnished with green parts of green onion. Enjoy your delicious homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with several sides and garnishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

With White Rice

• Serve over fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. The mild taste of the rice complements the zesty orange chicken perfectly.

With Fried Rice

• Pair with fried rice for a hearty meal. The added vegetables and soy sauce in fried rice enhance the overall flavor profile of your dinner.

As a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or wraps to create fresh orange chicken wraps. This adds a crunchy texture and makes for a fun, interactive dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve on top of mixed greens or spinach for a lighter option. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

In a Bowl

• Create an orange chicken bowl by adding grains like quinoa or brown rice along with steamed vegetables. This makes for a nutritious and filling meal.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Perfecting orange chicken at home can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate longer for deeper flavor absorption. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time allows.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F while frying. This ensures crispy chicken without being greasy.

• Double Fry: Frying the chicken twice creates an extra crispy texture. The first fry cooks it through, while the second adds crunch.

• Stir-Fry Quickly: When adding the chicken to the sauce, stir-fry quickly over medium-high heat to prevent sogginess from forming.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality orange juice will greatly enhance the taste of your sauce, making it vibrant and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

To round out your meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your orange chicken. Each option complements its flavors uniquely.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Adds a nutritious element with its bright green color and crunchy texture, balancing out the sweetness of the chicken.

2. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A mix of colorful vegetables sautéed in soy sauce provides additional flavor and nutrition while complementing your main dish.

3. Crispy Spring Rolls
   These flaky appetizers filled with vegetables add crunch and contrast to the tender orange chicken.

4. Fried Noodles
   Tossed in soy sauce and sesame oil, fried noodles pair beautifully with the tangy flavors of orange chicken.

5. Egg Fried Rice
   A classic side that combines eggs and vegetables into rice gets an extra boost when served with sweet-orange flavored chicken.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil cuts through the richness of the dish while providing crunch.

7. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans with garlic offer another veggie option that brings both flavor and texture to your meal.

8. Sesame Seed Spinach Salad
   This simple salad dressed lightly showcases tender spinach topped with sesame seeds, creating a nutty flavor that pairs well with everything on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the end result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overcrowding the pan – When frying the chicken, adding too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, causing soggy chicken instead of crispy bites. Always fry in batches.
• Not preheating the oil – If the oil isn’t hot enough when you add the chicken, it won’t fry properly. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil reaches 375°F before frying.
• Skipping the marination step – Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; allow the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors.
• Ignoring sauce consistency – The sauce should be bubbly and thick before adding the chicken. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer until it reaches a glossy consistency.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Fresh orange juice and quality chicken make a big difference in taste. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the orange chicken cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• For best results, separate sauce and chicken when freezing.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, place orange chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place the orange chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil if needed, and warm the orange chicken for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing orange chicken.

How can I make my Orange Chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you double fry the chicken as outlined in the recipe. This technique locks in moisture while creating a crunchy exterior.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on your protein choice.

What can I serve with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with white rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I adjust the spiciness of Orange Chicken?

To modify spiciness, simply reduce or omit chili flakes from the recipe. You can also add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile.

Can I prepare Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just fry and prepare your sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken offers an inviting blend of sweet and spicy flavors that rivals any takeout dish. It’s versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spice levels. Try making this delightful dish today!