Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and citrusy, making it a favorite for many.

This dish is easy to prepare at home, offering a delightful mix of flavors. Whether served with rice or vegetables, orange chicken makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

What is Orange Chicken Recipe?

Orange chicken is a stir-fry dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a flavorful orange sauce. The sauce combines orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings to create a tangy and sweet glaze that coats the crispy chicken.

It’s commonly served in Chinese restaurants and is often paired with steamed rice. The recipe has become a favorite comfort food, enjoyed for its vibrant flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe

• It’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients.

• The crispy chicken combined with the sweet and tangy sauce creates an irresistible flavor.

• It’s a customizable dish; you can adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your liking.

• Orange chicken is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Pre-preparation of Orange Chicken Recipe

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and ensure you have all the necessary spices and sauces for the orange glaze. The key to a perfect orange chicken lies in preparing each component with care, so take your time with the steps.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 egg (beaten)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

• Green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg, then coat them in the flour and cornstarch mixture. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Set aside.

2. In a separate pan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens.

3. Add the crispy chicken into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken.

4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.

FAQs About Orange Chicken Recipe

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.

Is the sauce spicy?
The sauce is mildly tangy and sweet, but you can add chili flakes to make it spicier if desired.

Can I make the orange chicken in advance?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Just coat the chicken and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.