Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

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Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? This orange chicken recipe delivers crispy, tangy, and sweet flavors that rival your favorite takeout. With a perfect balance of zesty orange and savory notes, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious meal, plus, discover supplements to support your health and wellness goals.

See also: Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe

Orange chicken is a classic Chinese-American dish known for its vibrant flavors and crispy texture. The combination of tender chicken, a crunchy coating, and a glossy orange sauce makes it irresistible. This recipe is:

Easy to Follow: Simple steps for home cooks of all levels.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice to your taste.
Health-Conscious: Includes nutrition facts and tips for lighter options.
Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this orange chicken will impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients, equipment, and steps to make it happen!

Ingredients for Orange Chicken

To make this orange chicken recipe for 4 servings, gather the following ingredients. Each item is linked to an Amazon affiliate link for easy shopping.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Ingredient Tips

Chicken: Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed provides the best flavor, but high-quality store-bought is fine.
Cornstarch: Essential for a crispy coating and thickening the sauce.

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See also: Easy Fluffy Biscuits Recipe

Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed

You’ll need the following equipment to prepare this orange chicken. Each item is linked to an Amazon affiliate link for convenience.

Large skillet or wok for frying
Mixing bowls for coating the chicken
Whisk for beating eggs and mixing sauce
Measuring cups and measuring spoons
Tongs for frying chicken
Zester for orange zest
Saucepan for making the sauce
Slotted spoon for removing chicken from oil
Paper towels for draining fried chicken

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. If you’re on a ketogenic diet, NuviaLab Keto can support weight loss and energy levels while you cook up this delicious dish.

See also: Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Set up three mixing bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with flour mixed with salt and black pepper.
Coat each chicken piece in cornstarch, then dip in egg, and finally coat in the flour mixture.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Fry the chicken in batches, using tongs, for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until evenly coated.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.

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See also: Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Sugars: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 900mg
Cholesterol: 150mg

Tips for a Lighter Version

Bake Instead of Fry: Coat the chicken and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar to 1/4 cup or use a natural sweetener.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for a reduced-sodium version to lower salt content.

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Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

Crispiness: Double-fry the chicken at a slightly higher temperature for extra crunch.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust the cornstarch slurry for a thicker or thinner sauce.
Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine just before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.

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Pairing Suggestions

Orange chicken pairs beautifully with:

Steamed jasmine rice
Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers
A light cucumber salad
Green tea or a fruity iced tea

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Health and Wellness Support

Cooking delicious meals like orange chicken is a great way to enjoy food while pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Supplements can enhance your wellness journey:

Keto Actives: Perfect for those on a ketogenic diet, this supplement supports fat reduction and appetite control.
Green Coffee 5K: A natural green coffee extract to aid weight loss without restrictive diets.
Meltamin: A cactus fruit-flavored fat burner to complement your fitness goals.

Explore these options to stay energized and focused while enjoying your culinary creations.

See also: The Best Egg Salad Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make orange chicken without frying?

Yes, you can bake the coated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version. The texture will be less crispy but still delicious.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. Can I use bottled orange juice?

Yes, bottled orange juice works, but choose a high-quality, not-from-concentrate option for the best flavor.

4. How do I store and reheat orange chicken?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or microwave for convenience.

5. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.

See also: Easy Bruschetta Recipe

Conclusion

This orange chicken recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. With its crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and vibrant garnishes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The detailed steps, nutrition facts, and tips ensure you can customize the dish to your preferences while keeping it delicious. Pair it with your favorite sides and consider incorporating supplements like NuviaLab Immune to boost your overall health. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish.