Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The chicken is marinated, deep-fried to crispy golden perfection, and tossed in a sweet and spicy orange sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and delightful crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of orange juice and zest creates a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the chicken.
• Crispy Texture: The double frying technique ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair this dish with white rice, fried rice, or even noodles for a complete meal.
• Homemade Goodness: Skip the takeout and enjoy a healthier version made right in your kitchen!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Orange Chicken recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Frying thermometer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for deep frying, allowing enough space for the oil to bubble without spilling over.
• Frying thermometer: Ensures your oil reaches the perfect temperature for frying, resulting in crispier chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce without making a mess.

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)
• 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 most of the water is absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has absorbed most of the water, add in the eggs and mix until well combined. Then add cornstarch and mix until there are no visible dry spots. Finish by incorporating oil into the mixture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While waiting for oil to heat up, prepare your orange 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 oil is hot enough at around 375°F, gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing them from oil to drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Second Frying Session

Ensure oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken back into it for another fry. Cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain again on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, toss in white parts of green onion along with minced garlic and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook the Sauce

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

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces into it. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated in sauce.

Step 10: Serve

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

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delicious dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your orange chicken experience.

With White Rice

• White rice is a classic choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce and balances the sweetness of the dish.

On Fried Rice

• Serve your orange chicken over fried rice for added texture and flavor, incorporating vegetables and scrambled eggs for a complete meal.

With Steamed Broccoli

• A side of steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious complement to the rich flavors of orange chicken.

In a Wrap

• Try wrapping orange chicken in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a fun twist, making it easy to eat on the go.

As a Salad Topper

• Use orange chicken as a topping on mixed greens with sesame dressing for a refreshing salad option.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve the best orange chicken, follow these essential tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Marinate Properly – Allow the chicken to marinate long enough so that it absorbs all the flavors from the water, baking soda, and seasonings.
• Heat Oil Correctly – Ensure your oil reaches 375°F before frying. This temperature ensures crispy chicken without being greasy.
• Fry in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. This keeps the oil’s temperature consistent and results in evenly cooked chicken.
• Prepare Sauce Ahead – Make your sauce ahead of time and have it ready to pour over the fried chicken for quick assembly.
• Double Frying Technique – Frying twice creates an extra crispy texture. The first fry cooks through, while the second fry crisps up the exterior.
• Garnish Thoughtfully – Use sliced green onions as a garnish to add freshness and visual appeal to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Complementing orange chicken with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options you can consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – Light and fragrant, jasmine rice pairs perfectly with orange chicken’s sweet sauce.
2. Fried Rice – A mix of vegetables and egg stir-fried with rice enhances both flavor and nutrition.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make a delightful appetizer alongside orange chicken.
4. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic add crunch and flavor, balancing out the richness of the main dish.
5. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and zing to your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.
7. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that complements Asian flavors beautifully.
8. Quinoa Pilaf – For a healthy twist, serve quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables as an alternative to traditional rice options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best homemade orange chicken, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can result in a less flavorful dish. Always allow time for marination to enhance the taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy coating. Fry in smaller batches for crispy results.
• Neglecting the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken properly. Cook until bubbly and thickened for better adherence.
• Using low-quality oil: Poor quality oil may affect flavor and frying results. Opt for neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
• Ignoring cooking temperatures: Cooking chicken at incorrect temperatures can lead to undercooked or burnt pieces. Use a thermometer to maintain optimal frying temperature around 375°F.

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

• Place cooled orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular dish featuring fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, often served with rice.

How can I customize my Orange Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Adjust spice levels by adding more chili flakes or omitting them altogether.

Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Fry the chicken fresh just before serving for optimal texture.

What sides pair well with Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken pairs beautifully with white rice, fried rice, or steamed vegetables, making it perfect for a balanced meal.

Is Orange Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

This delicious homemade orange chicken is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or spice levels. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful takeout experience from your kitchen!