Introduction:

Orange Chicken is a delicious and popular Chinese-American dish combining deep-fried chicken with a tangy, sweet, and mildly spiced orange sauce. This classic recipe is relatively easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion. Read on to discover the steps to creating the best Orange Chicken.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup cornstarch

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 2 large eggs, beaten

– Vegetable oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

– 3/4 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water

– 1 teaspoon minced garlic

– 1 teaspoon minced ginger

– Zest of one orange (optional)

– Red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken in the egg first and then dredge through the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

2. Fry the chicken: Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through (about 3 minutes per side). Remove from oil using a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

3. Make the orange sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. Once boiling, gradually add the cornstarch mixture while continuously stirring until the sauce thickens (usually within a minute or two).

4. Adjust seasoning: Add orange zest and red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce for extra zest and spice, if desired. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Coat the chicken in sauce: Combine fried chicken pieces with the orange sauce in the pan, tossing until all chicken pieces are well coated.

6. Serve: Serve your delicious orange chicken over steamed rice or noodles alongside your favorite vegetables or side dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional) before enjoying!

Conclusion:

Now you’re ready to wow your friends and family with this incredible Orange Chicken recipe! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to create a balanced meal. Enjoy!