Orange Chicken
This Orange Chicken recipe is a delightful homemade version of your favorite Chinese takeout dish. With marinated chicken fried to crispy perfection and tossed in a vibrant sweet and spicy orange sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The best part? You can enjoy all the delicious flavors of takeout from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The chicken is double-fried to achieve a crunchy exterior that holds up beautifully against the sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh orange juice and zest gives this dish a bright, authentic flavor that jarred sauces just can’t match.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it great for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as an appetizer. It fits any occasion!
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create this mouthwatering orange chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or tall pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Slotted spoon
- Cooking thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying, allowing for even heat distribution and enough space to cook multiple batches without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce; larger bowls help prevent spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in the orange chicken sauce.
- Slotted spoon: Great for safely removing fried chicken from hot oil while allowing excess oil to drain.
Ingredients
This homemade orange chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The chicken pieces are marinated and deep fried to crispy golden perfection and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce full of orange flavors.
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)
- 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
Combine the prepared chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Vigorously mix until most of the water is absorbed by the chicken.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch
Once absorbed, add the eggs into the bowl. Mix well until combined. Next, incorporate cornstarch until no dry bits remain. Finally, add oil and combine evenly.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat it until it reaches 375°F.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
While waiting for the oil to heat up, prepare your sauce. In a bowl or measuring cup, mix together orange juice, zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Set aside after mixing well.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
When oil is hot enough at 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if needed! Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes before draining on paper towels.
Step 6: Double Frying
Ensure oil returns to temperature before adding fried chicken back for a second fry. Fry another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy before removing from oil.
Step 7: Stir Fry Aromatics
In a wok over medium heat with a bit of oil, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
Step 8: Cook Sauce Until Thickened
Give your prepared sauce a good mix before pouring into the wok. Increase heat to medium-high until bubbly and glossy; stir frequently to avoid uneven thickening.
Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Add fried chicken pieces into the wok with sauce. Gently stir until each piece is evenly coated with that luscious sauce.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Plate your orange chicken right away with white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green parts of green onion for an added touch! Enjoy this delicious homemade dish!
How to Serve Orange Chicken
Serving orange chicken can be a delightful experience that enhances the meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making it suitable for any occasion.
With Steamed Rice
- Fluffy White Rice: The lightness of white rice complements the rich flavors of the orange chicken perfectly.
- Fried Rice: For an added twist, serve the chicken over fried rice packed with vegetables and eggs.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Fresh Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Alongside Vegetables
- Stir-Fried Broccoli: A side of vibrant broccoli adds nutrition and a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
- Mixed Stir-Fried Veggies: Combine bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for a colorful vegetable medley that adds flavor and crunch.
As Part of a Chinese Feast
- Dim Sum Dishes: Pair orange chicken with dim sum favorites like dumplings or spring rolls to create a diverse meal experience.
How to Perfect Orange Chicken
To achieve restaurant-quality orange chicken at home, consider these essential tips that will elevate your dish.
- Marinade: Marinate the chicken long enough for maximum flavor absorption; this enhances the overall taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest yield brighter flavors compared to bottled alternatives.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your frying oil remains around 375°F throughout cooking to achieve crispy, golden pieces without excess greasiness.
- Double Frying Technique: Frying twice ensures extra crispiness; don’t skip this step for optimal texture.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more water; if too thin, let it cook longer to thicken up properly.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve orange chicken right after cooking while it’s still hot and crispy.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
Complement your homemade orange chicken with delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce creates a hearty accompaniment.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp add crunch and variety to your meal.
- Steamed Bok Choy: Lightly steamed bok choy brings a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the orange sauce.
- Egg Fried Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in egg and soy sauce provide a comforting base for orange chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a cool contrast to the warm dish.
- Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans sprinkled with sesame seeds provide both flavor and texture alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making orange chicken at home can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure all pieces are crispy.
- Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step for the best results.
- Using low-quality oil: The type of oil affects taste and frying temperature. Opt for a neutral oil that can withstand high heat.
- Neglecting sauce consistency: A thick, sticky sauce is key to coating the chicken properly. Always mix the sauce well before adding it to the wok.
- Ignoring the frying temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece before frying.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Orange Chicken
- Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing quality.
Reheating Orange Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the orange chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the orange chicken and stir until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken is a popular Chinese dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.
How do I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?
To make orange chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of flour for breading.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can try it with shrimp, tofu, or even pork for different flavors.
What sides pair well with Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
How can I customize my Orange Chicken?
You can adjust sweetness by varying sugar levels or add more spices if you prefer extra heat. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli enhances nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This homemade orange chicken offers an incredible taste that rivals your favorite takeout. With its perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s easy to customize according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try out various ingredients and make this dish your own!
Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Orange Chicken is a delightful homemade rendition of the beloved Chinese takeout favorite. This recipe features tender chicken thighs marinated, double-fried to crispy perfection, and coated in a vibrant sweet and spicy orange sauce. With fresh orange juice and zest, you’ll savor authentic flavors that jarred sauces simply can’t match. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or as a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken thighs in a mixing bowl with water, baking soda, and salt until absorbed.
- Mix in eggs and cornstarch until well combined.
- Heat oil in a wok to 375°F.
- Prepare the orange sauce by mixing orange juice, zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Fry the marinated chicken pieces in batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir-fry garlic and chili pepper in the wok before adding the sauce; cook until thickened.
- Toss fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot immediately over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
