Orange chicken Recipe is a popular Chinese-American dish made with crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The sauce blends orange juice, sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce for a rich, flavorful glaze that’s irresistible. It’s often served with steamed rice and makes a great weeknight meal.
I’ve made orange chicken several times, and it’s always a hit. The combination of crispy chicken and tangy sauce is simply perfect. I like to adjust the sweetness and tang to my taste by adding extra orange zest or a bit of spice. It’s quick to prepare and never fails to satisfy my family.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe
This orange chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will delight your taste buds. The crispy chicken combined with the rich, citrusy sauce makes every bite irresistible. It’s an easy meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
The vibrant orange sauce is the star of this recipe. With a few simple ingredients, it creates a fresh, flavorful taste that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken. It’s a quick, delicious dish everyone will love.
Not only is this recipe full of flavor, but it’s also easy to make. You won’t need any complicated steps or ingredients. This orange chicken can be made in under 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights.
If you love a good homemade takeout meal, this orange chicken is just what you need. It’s healthier and more satisfying than what you’ll find at a restaurant. Plus, the leftovers taste just as great!
Ingredient Notes for an Orange Chicken Recipe
- Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, chicken breasts are the perfect choice for orange chicken. They cook quickly and absorb the sauce well.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture when fried. It’s a basic ingredient for breading.
- Cornstarch: Used with flour to make the coating extra crispy. It helps create a light, crunchy exterior for the chicken.
- Baking Powder: Helps the batter rise slightly, making the chicken even crispier.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavor of the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and flavor balance to the dish.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the chicken, vegetable oil is ideal because it has a high smoke point.
- Orange Juice: The star of the sauce, giving it that fresh and tangy orange flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth to the sauce, balancing out the sweetness of the orange juice.
- Sugar: Sweetens the sauce and helps to create a glossy finish on the chicken.
Pre-preparation of Orange Chicken Recipe
Before jumping into cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients and equipment ready.
- Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece is uniform for even cooking.
- Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together the soy sauce and rice vinegar in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces to the mixture, letting them marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Prep the Sauce: Mix the orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a separate bowl to prepare the sauce.
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Orange Chicken Recipe
Nutrition Benefits:
- Rich in Protein: Orange chicken provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
- Vitamin C Boost: The orange sauce in this recipe is packed with vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system and improve skin health.
- Low in Carbohydrates (if made healthy): By adjusting the ingredients or using less sugar, orange chicken can be a low-carb option, beneficial for weight management.
- Mineral Content: This dish offers essential minerals like potassium, which helps in maintaining healthy heart function and balancing fluids in the body.
Health Benefits:
- Supports Immune Health: Thanks to the vitamin C from oranges, this recipe can help boost your immune system and protect against common colds and infections.
- Promotes Skin Health: The vitamin C in orange chicken helps in collagen production, which is important for skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
- Heart Health: By using lean chicken and adjusting sugar levels in the sauce, orange chicken can support a healthy heart by keeping cholesterol levels in check.
- Aids Digestion: The ginger and other spices used in the recipe can improve digestion and reduce bloating, making it a gut-friendly meal.
Orange Chicken Recipe Variation
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the orange sauce. For a healthier option, try baking the chicken instead of deep frying. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, like lemon or lime, to change the flavor profile.
How to Serve Orange Chicken Recipe
Serve orange chicken over steamed white rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. The crispy chicken and sweet sauce will complement the rice and veggies perfectly.
For a lighter version, serve the chicken with a side of mixed greens or a simple cucumber salad. The fresh crunch of the vegetables will balance out the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded dish.
Storage Options
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or heat it in a skillet for a few minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid freezing as the chicken may lose its texture.
FAQs About Orange Chicken Recipe
Can I use another type of meat for orange chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even pork, but the taste and texture may differ. Just ensure the meat is cooked properly before adding the sauce.
How can I make orange chicken spicier?
To make orange chicken spicier, add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce. You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less.
Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately ahead of time, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. However, the chicken may lose its crispiness if stored for too long.
Is orange chicken healthy?
Orange chicken can be high in sugar and calories, but you can make it healthier by using less sugar or opting for a lighter batter. It’s always good to balance it with vegetables for a healthier meal.
Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water and stir until the batter forms a smooth consistency.
- Add the chicken pieces to the batter, ensuring each piece is coated well.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the oil, a few pieces at a time. Fry for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain.
- In a separate pan, heat sesame oil (if using) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Once the sauce has thickened, gently toss the fried chicken in the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Serve your homemade orange chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite veggies for a complete meal!
