Orange Chicken Recipe
Orange chicken is a beloved takeout classic that combines crispy fried chicken pieces with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy orange sauce. This homemade version is easy to make and perfect for when you crave that takeout flavor at home. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
Instructions
To Make the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in the mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
To Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring until it thickens. Adjust seasoning with red pepper flakes if desired.
- Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated. Serve over rice.
Tips
For extra crispiness, double fry the chicken pieces. You can also add orange zest to the sauce for a more intense orange flavor. Use dark meat for juicier chicken.
FAQs
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How do I make the sauce thicker? Add a bit more cornstarch slurry if the sauce is too thin.
- Can I make orange chicken gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce and flour substitutes.
- What sides go well with orange chicken? Serve with steamed rice, broccoli, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
This orange chicken recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a takeout favorite at home. With its sweet, tangy sauce and crispy chicken, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it for dinner and bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen!
