Orange Chicken Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that is sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious. While you may be used to ordering it from your local takeout place, making orange chicken at home is actually quite easy. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well coated.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
5. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Vegetarian/Vegan Substitute

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the chicken for tofu or seitan. Simply drain and press the tofu or seitan to remove any excess water, cut into bite-sized pieces, and follow the same instructions as the chicken.

Gluten-Free Substitute

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free.

Tips and Tricks

• Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• To save time, you can cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and prepare the sauce ahead of time.
• If you like your orange chicken extra saucy, you can double the sauce recipe.
• Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

We hope you enjoy making this easy orange chicken recipe at home! It’s the perfect dish for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, which makes them a better choice for this dish.

How can I make Orange Chicken less sweet?

To make Orange Chicken less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe or increase the amount of vinegar or soy sauce. You can also add some chili flakes to balance out the sweetness.

Can I make Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Orange Chicken gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. You can also use cornstarch instead of flour to coat the chicken.

Can I make Orange Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can make Orange Chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Can I use orange juice instead of fresh oranges for Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use orange juice instead of fresh oranges for Orange Chicken. However, fresh oranges will give the dish a more authentic flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

You can check if the chicken is cooked through by cutting it open with a knife. The chicken should be white and no longer pink in the middle. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C).

Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar instead of rice vinegar. However, rice vinegar has a milder flavor than other vinegars, which makes it a better choice for this dish.

Can I add vegetables to Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots to Orange Chicken. Add them to the pan after cooking the chicken and before adding the sauce.

Can I use honey instead of sugar for Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use honey instead of sugar for Orange Chicken. However, keep in mind that honey has a stronger flavor than sugar, which may affect the taste of the dish.

Can I freeze Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Orange Chicken for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.