Orange Chicken

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, tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce bursting with orange flavors. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or impressing guests, this dish stands out with its vibrant taste and delightful crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Sauce – The combination of orange juice, zest, and spices creates a sweet and tangy flavor that elevates the dish.
• Crispy Texture – Double frying the chicken ensures a satisfying crunch that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile Meal – Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own as an appetizer.
• Homemade Goodness – Skip the takeout and enjoy a fresh, homemade version that rivals your favorite restaurant.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and make it enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Slotted spoon or spider

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large pan – Ideal for frying as it holds heat well and allows for even cooking of chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Necessary for marinating chicken and combining sauce ingredients effectively.
• Slotted spoon or spider – Essential for safely removing fried chicken from hot oil without excess grease.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Orange Chicken:

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 Chicken 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)

For Frying

• 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: Mix in Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water:
1. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
2. Add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no more dry cornstarch visible.
3. Finish by adding the oil and mixing until evenly combined.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the oil is heating up:
1. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Mix well and set aside. You can also prepare this sauce ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot:
1. Maintain heat around 375°F.
2. Gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer.
3. Don’t overcrowd; fry in batches if needed!
4. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden; remove from oil to drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Second Frying Session

Ensure that oil returns to 375°F:
1. Add fried chicken pieces back into hot oil for a second fry.
2. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy; drain on paper towels or rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

In a wok over medium heat:
1. Add a small amount of oil; once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers.
2. Stir-fry for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Sauce with Fried Chicken

Give prepared sauce a good mix:
1. Pour it into wok; increase heat to medium-high.
2. Cook sauce until bubbly, thicker, and glossy while stirring frequently to prevent uneven thickening.

Step 9: Toss Chicken in Sauce

When sauce is ready:
1. Add fried chicken pieces back into wok.
2. Stir and toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Serve hot with white rice or fried rice:
Garnish with green parts of green onion before enjoying your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Steamed White Rice

• Steamed white rice pairs perfectly with orange chicken, absorbing the delicious sauce and balancing the flavors.

On Fried Rice

• Serve orange chicken on a bed of fried rice. The added vegetables and soy sauce in fried rice complement the sweetness of the chicken.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add a side of sautéed or steamed vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and nutrition to your meal.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, wrap orange chicken in lettuce leaves or tortillas with fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce for a hand-held treat.

As Part of a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Combine orange chicken with quinoa or whole grains and assorted vegetables for a nutritious stir-fry bowl that’s both filling and flavorful.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Achieving the perfect orange chicken involves attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some helpful tips for making your dish shine.

• Choose quality chicken – Opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor.

• Marinate well – Allowing the chicken to marinate helps enhance its flavor and texture, making it tender and delicious.

• Maintain oil temperature – Keep the frying oil at 375°F to ensure crispy results without greasy chicken.

• Double fry for crispiness – Frying the chicken twice creates an extra crispy coating that holds up well when tossed in sauce.

• Stir-fry quickly – When adding the fried chicken to the sauce, stir-fry quickly over high heat to keep it crispy while coating it evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with orange chicken can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice – A classic choice that adds flavor and texture; packed with veggies and eggs for added nutrition.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers a fresh crunch that balances the sweetness of orange chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a cool contrast to the warm dish.
4. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies create an enjoyable crunchy side that complements orange chicken nicely.
5. Quinoa Salad – A hearty quinoa salad loaded with colors and flavors makes for a healthy side that pairs well.
6. Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or veggies can be served on the side, enhancing your meal’s freshness.
7. Asian Noodle Salad – This cold noodle salad, tossed in sesame dressing, offers unique flavors that match beautifully.
8. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the marinade – Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness. Always allow enough time for the chicken to absorb the marinade fully.
• Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.
• Not double frying – The double frying technique ensures your chicken remains crunchy. Don’t skip the second fry; it makes a significant difference!
• Ignoring sauce consistency – If your sauce isn’t thickened properly, it won’t cling to the chicken well. Stir frequently and cook until bubbly for that perfect glaze.
• Serving without sides – Orange chicken pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Don’t forget to serve it with a side to complete your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the orange chicken to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking together.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making orange chicken.

How do I make my orange chicken sauce sweeter?

You can adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or honey as desired. Just stir in gradually and taste as you go.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef instead of chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs great with steamed white rice, fried rice, or even noodles. Add some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free for this delicious orange chicken recipe.

How can I customize my orange chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. You can also adjust spice levels by modifying the chili flakes used!

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors that rivals your favorite takeout dish! It’s versatile enough for dinner parties or quick weeknight meals. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or tweak the sauce’s sweetness according to your taste!