What is the Recipe for a Tasty Orange Chicken Dish?

Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the savory flavors of fried chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it a favorite in many households. This dish, popularized by Chinese-American cuisine, is perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or whenever you're craving something both comforting and exotic. Below, we'll explore the step-by-step process of making a delicious orange chicken dish at home, along with tips and variations to customize the recipe to your taste.

Ingredients for Orange Chicken

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

For the Chicken:

1 lb. (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs - cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup all-purpose flour - for coating the chicken

1/2 cup cornstarch - for coating the chicken

2 large eggs - beaten

Salt and pepper - to taste

Vegetable oil - for frying (enough to fill a pan about 1-2 inches deep)

For the Orange Sauce:

1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice - (about 2-3 oranges)

Zest of 1 orange - for extra flavor

1/3 cup soy sauce - use low-sodium if preferred

1/4 cup rice vinegar - for tanginess

1/4 cup granulated sugar - or honey for a healthier option

2 tablespoons cornstarch - mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry

2 garlic cloves - minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger - minced or grated

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes - optional, for a hint of heat

1 tablespoon sesame oil - for a nutty flavor

1 tablespoon sesame seeds - for garnish

Sliced green onions - for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

Step 1: Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful even before it’s coated and fried.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch. These two ingredients create a crispy coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken pieces in the flour-cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of coated chicken—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 5: Fry the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

2. Making the Orange Sauce

Step 1: While the chicken is frying, prepare the orange sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the sauce, balancing the sweetness with a bit of spice and warmth.

Step 3: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to cook for about 5 minutes, so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. This will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk the slurry into the sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Continue to simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the sesame oil for added flavor.

3. Combining Chicken and Sauce

Step 1: Once all the chicken is fried and the sauce is ready, it’s time to combine them. Place the fried chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat every piece evenly. The sauce should cling to the crispy chicken, creating a glossy, mouthwatering dish.

Step 3: Garnish the orange chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Orange chicken is typically served with steamed white rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite even more flavorful. You can also serve it with fried rice, lo mein, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy for a more balanced meal.

Variations and Tips

1. Baked Orange Chicken

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Toss the baked chicken in the sauce as directed.

2. Spicy Orange Chicken

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha to the sauce. This will give the dish a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweet orange flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Orange Chicken

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for coating the chicken. Additionally, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute it with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative.

4. Vegetarian Orange 'Chicken'

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or cauliflower. Simply prepare and cook the tofu or cauliflower in the same way as the chicken, and toss it in the orange sauce.

Final Thoughts

Orange chicken is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds—crispy, savory chicken and a sweet, tangy sauce with a citrusy punch. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With a few simple ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that everyone will love.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something flavorful and comforting, give this orange chicken recipe a try. You might just find it becomes a regular favorite in your household!