Orange Chicken

This homemade Orange Chicken tastes just as good, if not better than Chinese takeout! The chicken pieces are marinated and deep-fried to crispy golden perfection, then tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce bursting with orange flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The chicken is fried twice for an extra crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy orange sauce.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch ahead of time. It reheats well and makes for delicious leftovers.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper to suit your taste, making it mild or spicy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Orange Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or tall pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or tall pan: Ideal for frying, allowing you to maintain the right temperature while preventing oil splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces without making a mess.
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer: Helps safely remove fried chicken from hot oil without excess grease.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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)
• 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 most of the water is absorbed by the chicken.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Cornstarch

Once the chicken has absorbed most of the water, add the eggs. Mix until well combined. Next, add the cornstarch and mix until evenly combined with no dry spots. Finish by incorporating the oil.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a wok or tall pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil. Heat until it reaches 375°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Orange Sauce

While the oil heats up, prepare the sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine orange juice, orange zest, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken First Time

Once heated, maintain oil at around 375°F. Gently place marinated chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time without overcrowding. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oil and drain for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Fry Again for Crispiness

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

Step 7: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In a wok over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, add white parts of green onion, minced garlic, and chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8: Cook Sauce

Re-mix prepared sauce before pouring it into the wok. Increase heat to medium-high; cook sauce until bubbly, thicker, and glossy while stirring frequently.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

When ready, add fried chicken pieces into the sauce. Stir continuously until all pieces are well coated.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately with white rice or fried rice garnished with green parts of green onion. Enjoy your delicious homemade Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice is a classic choice to soak up the delicious orange sauce. It complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Over Fried Rice

• For a heartier option, serve orange chicken over fried rice. The added vegetables and proteins in fried rice enhance the overall dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This not only adds color but also balances the meal with nutrients.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top your orange chicken with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch and an extra hint of flavor.

Accompanied by Spring Rolls

• Pair with crispy spring rolls for a satisfying appetizer that complements the sweet and tangy notes of the chicken.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken

To achieve restaurant-quality orange chicken at home, consider these essential tips:

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate properly enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 375°F ensures that the chicken fries up crispy without absorbing too much oil.
• Double Fry: Frying the chicken twice creates an extra crunchy texture that’s irresistible.
• Stir Constantly: When cooking the sauce, stirring frequently helps achieve an even thickness and prevents burning.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled options.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken

Serving orange chicken with complementary dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent side options:

1. Fried Rice: A mix of rice, vegetables, and protein stir-fried together creates a flavorful base for your orange chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds color and nutrition while balancing the sweetness of the dish.
3. Egg Fried Rice: Packed with eggs and veggies, this dish enhances flavors and adds protein to your meal.
4. Chow Mein Noodles: These stir-fried noodles provide a delightful chewiness that pairs beautifully with orange chicken.
5. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic complement the citrus flavor while adding crunch.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil offers a light contrast to the richness of the chicken.
7. Asian Slaw: This crunchy slaw provides a zesty bite that contrasts nicely with the sweet sauce of orange chicken.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a soothing counterpart to your flavorful main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making orange chicken at home can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold preparation: Not prepping all ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos. Always measure and prepare everything before starting.
• Bold frying temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can result in soggy chicken. Make sure your oil is hot enough, around 375°F, for crispy results.
• Bold overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness.
• Bold sauce consistency: Not achieving the right thickness for your sauce can leave it watery. Cook until bubbly and glossy, stirring constantly for best results.
• Bold serving immediately: Letting the dish sit too long before serving can make it lose its crunch. Serve right away for optimal texture and flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Chicken

• Place cooled orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake on a baking sheet until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot. This may soften the chicken slightly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding orange chicken that might help clarify your cooking process.

What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a popular dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute with turkey or beef if you prefer different meats while keeping the same cooking method.

How do I make my sauce less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, decrease the amount of sugar used or add more vinegar or orange juice to balance the flavors.

Can I customize my Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

What should I serve with Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with white rice or fried rice, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This homemade orange chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that rivals any takeout. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep. Give it a try today!