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Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken
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Savor the delightful flavors of homemade Orange Chicken, a dish that brings the essence of vibrant citrus and crispy texture right to your kitchen. Perfectly marinated chicken thighs are deep-fried until golden brown, then tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that will satisfy your cravings without the need for takeout. This versatile recipe is ideal for family dinners or impressing guests with its restaurant-quality taste. Enjoy it on a bed of rice, alongside fresh vegetables, or even in wraps for a unique twist. With simple steps and ingredients you likely already have on hand, this Orange Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces)
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ tablespoon garlic (minced)
  • ½ teaspoon Chinese chili pepper flakes
  • 1 stalk green onion (thinly sliced white and green separated)
  • Oil (as needed for cooking)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs and mix until well combined. Add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no more dry cornstarch visible. Finish by adding the oil and mixing until evenly combined.
  3. In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat the oil until it reaches 375°F.
  4. While the oil is heating up, in a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.
  5. When the oil is hot, gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time until there's an even layer. Don't overcrowd; fry in batches if needed! Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden; remove from oil to drain on paper towels.
  6. Ensure that oil returns to 375°F. Add fried chicken pieces back into hot oil for a second fry. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy; drain on paper towels or rack.
  7. In a wok over medium heat, add a small amount of oil; once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Give prepared sauce a good mix, pour it into wok; increase heat to medium-high. Cook sauce until bubbly, thicker, and glossy while stirring frequently to prevent uneven thickening.
  9. When sauce is ready, add fried chicken pieces back into wok. Stir and toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.
  10. Serve hot with white rice or fried rice. Garnish with green parts of green onion before enjoying your homemade Orange Chicken!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thelowfatkitchen.com/orange-chicken/