These crispy orange chicken pieces are bursting with flavor, featuring a homemade sauce that balances sweetness and tang. In less than an hour, you’ll have a comforting dinner that is not only easy to make but also tests your cooking skills beautifully. Gather the family around the table, because this dish is sure to be a hit!
There’s something so magical about recreating favorite takeout dishes in your own kitchen. I remember the first time I tried making orange chicken. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I craved the satisfying crunch paired with a zesty glaze. After a few failed attempts, I finally found the perfect blend of crispy chicken and the sticky, flavorful sauce that made my family rejoice. Now, with this tested recipe, you too can enjoy that comfort.
Why You Should Try This Cozy Orange Chicken Recipe
Orange chicken is a classic for a reason. It marries the crispiness of chicken with the peppy zing of orange, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Not only is it family-friendly, but this recipe allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. Make it as spicy or sweet as you like, and watch as everyone gathers to fill their plates!
How to Make the Best Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 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)
- 1 cup orange juice (about 2 to 3 oranges juiced)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (adjust for preference)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust based on orange sweetness)
- 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 parts separated)
- Whole dry chili pepper (optional)
- Oil (as needed for cooking)
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Mix vigorously until the chicken absorbs most of the water. Add the eggs, then the cornstarch, mixing until no dry spots remain. Finish with the oil and combine well.
- Prepare the Oil: Heat about 2 to 3 inches of oil in a wok or tall pan until it reaches 375°F.
- Make the Sauce: While the oil heats, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch in a bowl. Set aside.
- Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden, then drain on paper towels. Repeat for a second fry of about 5 to 6 minutes until crispy.
- Stir-Fry: In a separate pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, followed by the white parts of the green onions, garlic, and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan, increase heat to medium-high, and stir until bubbly and thickened. Add the fried chicken, tossing until well coated.
- Serve Hot: Garnish with the green parts of green onion and serve immediately with steamed white rice or fried rice.
Serving Suggestions for Orange Chicken
Serve your orange chicken fresh out of the pan, piping hot and glistening with the homemade sauce. Pair it with fluffy white rice or try your hand at fried rice for an extra touch of flavor. Add a side of steamed broccoli or a crunchy salad to balance the meal, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
Storing Leftover Orange Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a rarity with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat to retain the crispy texture, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Tips for Making Perfect Orange Chicken
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too cool will result in soggy chicken.
- For an added crunch, double fry the chicken as detailed in the recipe.
- Experiment with the sweetness of the sauce according to your taste—orange juice can vary in sweetness!
Variations to Try
For a kick, add in some diced bell peppers or even pineapple chunks to your stir-fry for a tropical twist. You can also swap chicken for crispy tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
Can I make this orange chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or make the sauce ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can substitute cornstarch with all-purpose flour, but the texture may vary slightly.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, replace soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure the ketchup is also gluten-free.
Bringing restaurant-quality orange chicken into your home can be a delightful experience filled with the warmth of cooking for loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal everyone will rave about!