Orange Chicken

This homemade orange chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The crispy chicken, perfectly marinated and coated in a tangy orange sauce, makes it an ideal dish for family dinners, gatherings, or any special occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this flavorful meal at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double-frying method ensures each piece of chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives this dish a vibrant flavor that stands out.
• Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with white rice, fried rice, or even noodles for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the sweetness or spice levels in the sauce to cater to your family’s taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or deep pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or deep pan: Ideal for frying, as it allows for even heat distribution and plenty of space for your chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce without any mess.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Perfect for safely handling the hot chicken while frying.

Ingredients

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 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)

For Cooking and Garnish

• 1 stalk green onion (thinly sliced (white and green separated))
• Whole dry chili pepper (optional)
• 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: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Then add the cornstarch and mix until evenly incorporated; no dry cornstarch should be visible. Finish by adding the oil and mixing until all ingredients are well 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, prepare the orange chicken sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside. You can also have this sauce made ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot enough, maintain it at around 375°F. Gently place marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time until there’s an even layer. Avoid overcrowding; fry in batches if necessary! Fry each batch for about 4 to 5 minutes before removing them from oil. Let them drain on paper towels for about 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally to break apart stuck pieces.

Step 6: Second Fry for Extra Crispiness

Ensure that the oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken pieces back into the oil for a second fry. Let them fry again for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil once done draining on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

In a clean wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once heated, incorporate white parts of green onion along with minced garlic and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Add Sauce Mixture

Give your prepared sauce another good mix before pouring it into your wok. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly and thickened while stirring frequently to prevent uneven thickening.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once your sauce is ready, add in all those crispy fried chicken pieces. Stir well until every piece is evenly coated with that delicious orange sauce.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Serve your homemade orange chicken right away alongside white rice or fried rice; garnish with green parts of green onion for added flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving orange chicken can elevate your dining experience, making it feel like a special occasion. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish.

With White Rice

• Simple and classic, white rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, creating a perfect balance.

On Fried Rice

• For a heartier meal, serve orange chicken on top of fried rice mixed with vegetables and scrambled eggs for added texture.

As a Salad Topping

• Add crispy orange chicken pieces to a fresh salad. The sweetness of the chicken pairs well with tangy dressings.

In a Wrap

• Roll up orange chicken in a tortilla with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce for a tasty and portable meal option.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing orange chicken with steamed vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the dish’s flavors.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

Achieving the perfect orange chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 375°F during frying to ensure crispy results; use a thermometer for accuracy.

• Double Fry for Crispiness: Frying the chicken twice enhances its texture, making it extra crispy on the outside.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, cook it longer until it thickens properly; this will help coat the chicken evenly.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality oranges make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to pre-packaged options.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Complement your orange chicken with these delicious side dishes that enhance its sweet and savory profile.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A fragrant rice option that pairs well with rich sauces, making every bite delightful.

2. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   Quick-cooked vegetables add crunch and color, balancing out the sweetness of the orange sauce.

3. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers freshness and zest alongside the main dish.

4. Egg Fried Rice
   Flavorful fried rice mixed with eggs provides an excellent base that absorbs extra sauce while adding protein.

5. Crispy Spring Rolls
   Light and crunchy spring rolls filled with veggies make for an excellent appetizer or side that contrasts nicely with orange chicken.

6. Garlic Noodles
   Tossed in garlic butter, these noodles are quick to prepare and add richness without overpowering the main dish.

7. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad with cucumbers and vinegar dressing cuts through richness while providing a crisp texture.

8. Miso Soup
   This warm soup offers umami flavor that complements the sweetness of orange chicken while keeping the meal light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Orange Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always take the time to let the chicken absorb the marinade for at least 30 minutes.

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you add too many chicken pieces at once, they will steam instead of fry. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.

• Not Monitoring Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn; if it’s too cool, it will absorb excess oil. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 375°F for optimal frying.

• Forgetting to Stir the Sauce: When cooking the sauce, neglecting to stir can lead to uneven thickening or burning. Keep stirring until it reaches a bubbly, glossy consistency.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your Orange Chicken heavily relies on fresh ingredients like orange juice and zest. Always opt for high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best taste.

• Serving Cold: Orange Chicken tastes best when served hot. Make sure to serve it immediately after cooking for maximum flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions related to making Orange Chicken that might help you:

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange Chicken is a popular dish that features battered and fried chicken tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s often enjoyed as a comforting meal or takeout option.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe uses chicken thighs, you can substitute with beef or turkey if you prefer those meats instead.

How do I make my Orange Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chilis when cooking the sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure any sauces used are gluten-free as well.

How do I achieve extra crispy chicken?

Double fry the chicken pieces as instructed in the recipe. This technique ensures they come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Orange Chicken recipe not only delivers incredible flavor but also allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it spicy or sweet, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. We encourage you to try making it yourself—you won’t be disappointed!