Delicious orange chicken dish with crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce

Orange Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Orange Chicken is a popular dish known for its sweet and tangy flavor. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but is also easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills!

how to make Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/3 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onion
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

  1. Gather all your ingredients.
  2. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water, rice vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and orange juice for the sauce.
  3. Stir in brown sugar, green onion, orange zest, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil.
  4. Once it boils, remove from heat and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
  5. Place the chicken cubes in a resealable plastic bag and pour in 1 cup of the cooled sauce. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Reserve the remaining sauce.
  6. In another resealable plastic bag, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it into the bag of seasoned flour. Seal the bag and shake to coat the chicken.
  7. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
  8. Remove the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and cover with aluminum foil.
  9. Wipe out the skillet and pour the reserved sauce into it. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  10. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir this into the boiling sauce.
  11. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the chicken back to the skillet, and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through.
  12. Serve over rice and enjoy!

how to serve Orange Chicken

Orange Chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy rice. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.

how to store Orange Chicken

You can store leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

tips to make Orange Chicken

  • Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours for the best flavor.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water.
  • Experiment with fresh vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.

variation (if any)

You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, using fresh orange juice instead of bottled juice can enhance the flavor of the dish. You may also try adding more red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.

FAQs

1. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.

2. Is Orange Chicken spicy?
The original recipe is not very spicy, but you can add more red pepper flakes if you like it hot.

3. Can I freeze Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container. Just make sure to thaw it properly before reheating.