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 orange sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double frying method ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy, giving you that satisfying crunch.
• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest provides a vibrant flavor that elevates this dish beyond standard chicken recipes.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy weeknights.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your heat preference, making it adaptable for all taste buds.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds well in the fridge and is great for leftovers, making it ideal for preparing meals ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

To create your homemade Orange Chicken, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure that your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking thermometer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large pan: Ideal for frying the chicken evenly and handling larger batches without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce components efficiently.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures your oil reaches the perfect temperature for frying, resulting in crispy chicken without being greasy.

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 Batter

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs and mix until well combined. Following that, add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no more dry cornstarch visible. Finish by adding the oil and mixing until evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Heat the 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 Orange Sauce

While heating the oil, prepare your sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When hot enough, maintain oil at around 375°F. Carefully place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time without overcrowding. Fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing them from oil to drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up any stuck pieces.

Step 6: Second Fry for Crispiness

Ensure oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken back in for a second fry. Let them cook another 5 to 6 minutes or until golden brown and extra crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Create Flavors

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Add white parts of green onion along with minced garlic and chili peppers; stir-fry briefly until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Sauce with Chicken

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

Step 9: Toss Chicken in Sauce

When ready, add fried chicken pieces into your flavorful sauce. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 10: Serve Your Dish

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

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your orange chicken experience.

Over Steamed White Rice

• This classic pairing allows the sweet and tangy sauce to soak into the rice, creating a satisfying meal.

With Fried Rice

• For a heartier option, serve orange chicken over fried rice, which adds texture and flavor with each bite.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create fresh wraps filled with orange chicken and your favorite veggies for a fun twist.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the orange chicken on mixed greens for a light yet flavorful salad option. Drizzle with extra sauce for added taste.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top your dish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and an extra crunch that complements the tender chicken.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Perfecting your orange chicken is all about balancing flavors and achieving that ideal crispy texture. Here are some tips to help you nail it.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate long enough so that the flavors penetrate deeply, enhancing taste.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 375°F ensures crispy chicken; too low will make it soggy while too high may burn it.
• Double Fry: Frying the chicken twice creates an extra-crispy texture that holds up well against the sauce.
• Stir Frequently: While cooking the sauce, stir often to prevent burning and ensure even thickening for a glossy finish.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your sauce before adding the chicken; adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of your oranges.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can enhance its vibrant flavors. Here’s a selection of perfect accompaniments.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the sweetness of the orange chicken.

2. Fried Rice
   A mix of vegetables and proteins in fried rice makes it a flavorful companion that complements the dish nicely.

3. Garlic Noodles
   These savory noodles add richness and depth, making every bite more satisfying alongside the zesty orange flavors.

4. Crispy Egg Rolls
   These crunchy appetizers filled with vegetables offer a nice contrast in texture when served alongside orange chicken.

5. Asian Slaw
   A refreshing slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

6. Quinoa Salad
   This healthy option combines protein-rich quinoa with veggies, providing a nutty flavor that pairs well with citrus notes.

7. Wontons
   Crispy wontons add an irresistible crunch and can be filled with various ingredients for added flavor diversity.

8. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup can provide comfort while its umami flavor contrasts beautifully with sweet orange chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orange Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Ensure you allow enough time for the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors.

• Overcrowding the Pan: When frying, avoid placing too many pieces in the oil at once. This can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches!

• Not Monitoring Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 375°F is crucial for achieving crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain consistent heat during frying.

• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be bubbly and thick before adding chicken. If it isn’t thickening properly, cook it a bit longer while stirring frequently.

• Serving Cold: Orange Chicken is best served hot and fresh. Don’t let it sit out too long before serving, as this can make it lose its crispiness.

• Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes like sliced green onions add freshness and color to your dish. Always remember to sprinkle them on just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Place cooled Orange Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Orange Chicken:

What can I substitute for chicken thighs in Orange Chicken?

You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or turkey if you prefer a leaner meat option while still enjoying great flavor.

Can I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I enhance the orange flavor in my dish?

Adding more orange zest or using fresh-squeezed juice will intensify the citrus flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them right before serving for optimal freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well and can be portioned into containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

What side dishes pair well with Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken pairs nicely with white rice, fried rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Orange Chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that rivals any takeout option. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust sweetness as desired. We encourage you to try making this flavorful dish at home; you won’t be disappointed!