Orange Chicken

This Orange Chicken recipe is a delightful homemade version of your favorite Chinese takeout! With tender pieces of chicken marinated and fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, this dish brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine into your kitchen. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Orange Chicken
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Thighs
• Step 2: Coat the Chicken
• Step 3: Heat the Oil
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Fry the Chicken
• Step 6: Double Frying for Crispiness
• Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce
• Step 8: Combine Sauce with Chicken
• Step 9: Coat Fried Chicken in Sauce
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Orange Chicken
• With Rice
• With Vegetables
• Garnishing Options
• How to Perfect Orange Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Orange Chicken
• Reheating Orange Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Orange Chicken?
• How can I customize my Orange Chicken?
• Can I use other meats for this recipe?
• Is Orange Chicken healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This orange chicken can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The double frying method ensures that each piece of chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
• Flavor Explosion: With fresh orange juice and zest, this dish bursts with vibrant citrus flavor that elevates every bite.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili flakes according to your taste preference.
• Perfect Pairing: Serve it with white rice or fried rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels or cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying, as it allows even heat distribution and minimizes oil splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce without mess.
• Slotted spoon: Makes it easy to remove fried chicken from hot oil safely.

Ingredients

• 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)
• 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)
• 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: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has mostly absorbed the water:
1. Add the eggs and mix until well combined.
2. Following that, add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no dry cornstarch visible.
3. Finish by adding the oil and mixing until evenly 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 heats up:
1. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine the orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
2. Mix well and set aside. You can also prepare this sauce ahead of time.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

When the oil is hot:
1. Maintain heat around 375°F.
2. Gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time without overcrowding.
3. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes, then remove from oil to drain for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Double Frying for Crispiness

Ensure oil returns to 375°F before adding fried chicken pieces back in:
1. Fry for another 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove from oil and let drain on paper towels or a rack.

Step 7: Make the Orange Chicken Sauce

In a clean wok or large pan over medium heat:
1. Add a small amount of oil.
2. Once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers.
3. Stir fry for 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Sauce with Chicken

Give your prepared sauce a good mix:
1. Pour it into the wok with ingredients already sizzling.
2. Increase heat to medium-high; cook until bubbly, thicker, and glossy while stirring frequently.

Step 9: Coat Fried Chicken in Sauce

When sauce is ready:
1. Add fried chicken pieces directly into wok.
2. Stir and toss until all pieces are evenly coated in sauce.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice:
Garnish with green parts of green onion on top for added freshness!

Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving orange chicken is a delightful experience, as this dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your homemade orange chicken.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The fluffy texture balances the sweet and spicy flavors of the orange chicken.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and eggs for a hearty side that complements the dish beautifully.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: The crunchy texture of broccoli adds a healthy contrast to the juicy chicken.
• Sautéed Bok Choy: This mild green has a slight crunch and enhances the overall meal with its freshness.

Garnishing Options

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkling fresh green onions on top adds color and a hint of sharpness.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an extra layer of flavor and a nutty touch.

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How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality orange chicken at home, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate long enough for the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at 375°F for optimal frying; this creates crispy chicken without excessive oil absorption.
• Double Frying Technique: Frying the chicken twice ensures it stays crispy even after being tossed in sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: Stir the sauce frequently while cooking to prevent uneven thickening; aim for a glossy finish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest will provide vibrant flavors compared to bottled alternatives.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Pairing your orange chicken with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors.

1. Fried Rice: A classic option, fried rice is packed with flavor and can include veggies or protein for variety.
2. Egg Rolls: These crispy treats filled with vegetables or meat make for a perfect appetizer alongside orange chicken.
3. Sweet and Sour Cabbage Salad: This tangy salad brightens up the meal with its fresh crunch and contrasting flavors.
4. Chinese Noodles: Tossed in a light soy sauce, these noodles provide a chewy texture that pairs well with saucy dishes.
5. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, spring rolls are an excellent finger food that complements the richness of orange chicken.
6. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a savory element that balances the sweetness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making orange chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating chicken enhances flavor and tenderness. Always allow time for marination before frying.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once leads to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Not checking oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken absorbs excess oil. Use a thermometer to maintain 375°F.
• Using old oil: Old or reused oil can affect flavor and texture. Always use fresh oil for frying.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: A proper sauce should be thick and glossy. Stir frequently while it cooks to achieve the right texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Freeze orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making orange chicken.

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese dish made of battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

How can I customize my Orange Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes used.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even pork based on your preference.

Is Orange Chicken healthy?

While delicious, orange chicken is best enjoyed in moderation as it contains sugar and fried ingredients. Consider baking instead of frying for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also offers incredible flavor that rivals any takeout dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal!