How To Deep Fry Orange Chicken: The Easy, Foolproof Method For Crispy, Delicious Results Every Time!
What To Know
- If you’ve been yearning to recreate this restaurant-style delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to deep fry orange chicken that rivals any professional chef.
- In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces in the prepared orange sauce.
- Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
When it comes to tantalizing dishes that ignite taste buds, deep-fried orange chicken reigns supreme. Its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and delectable orange sauce make it a culinary masterpiece that captivates palates worldwide. If you’ve been yearning to recreate this restaurant-style delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to deep fry orange chicken that rivals any professional chef.
Gathering the Essential Ingredients
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- Orange sauce (recipe provided below)
Preparing the Chicken
1. Marinade the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Double-dredge the chicken: After marinating, dredge the chicken pieces in cornstarch once more to ensure a crispy exterior.
Making the Orange Sauce
1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon grated orange zest, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
2. Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat and simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Deep-Frying the Chicken
1. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fry the chicken: Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain the chicken: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels.
Assembling the Orange Chicken
1. Toss the chicken in the sauce: In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces in the prepared orange sauce.
2. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh orange slices and chopped green onions, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Perfecting Your Technique
1. Use the right cut of chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
2. Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful and tender meat.
3. Double-dredge the chicken: Double-dredging ensures a crispy, well-coated exterior that won’t fall apart when biting into it.
4. Control the oil temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for evenly cooked and crispy chicken.
5. Don’t overcrowd the pot: Frying too many chicken pieces at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Elevate Your Orange Chicken
1. Add a hint of spice: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
2. Experiment with different marinades: Try marinating the chicken in buttermilk or yogurt for a more tender and juicy result.
3. Add vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli or bell peppers along with the chicken for a healthier and more colorful dish.
4. Serve with dipping sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or sweet and sour sauce, to complement the orange chicken.
Takeaways: The Ultimate Culinary Triumph
Mastering the art of deep-frying orange chicken is a culinary triumph that will impress family and friends alike. By following these detailed instructions and embracing the tips and variations provided, you can create this delectable dish that will tantalize taste buds and leave lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of oil for frying?
A: Yes, you can use canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil as alternatives to vegetable oil.
Q: How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Q: Can I freeze the orange chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken before tossing it in the sauce. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Q: How can I make the orange sauce spicier?
A: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and frying.
