What To Know
- Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
- Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor.
Craving the irresistible flavors of classic orange chicken but with a gluten-free twist? This comprehensive guide will teach you how to make mouthwatering gluten-free orange chicken in the comfort of your own home. Follow these step-by-step instructions and enjoy a delicious, crispy meal that caters to your dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup gluten-free orange juice
- ½ cup gluten-free soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in the remaining cornstarch and shake off any excess. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce
Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium heat. Add the sauce and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- Use gluten-free cornstarch and soy sauce to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Dredge the chicken in cornstarch twice for extra crispiness.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the sauce until thickened to avoid a runny texture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or vegetables for added freshness and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor.
- Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Add vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to the dish for a colorful and nutritious stir-fry.
Dietary Considerations
This orange chicken recipe is:
- Gluten-free
- Can be made dairy-free by using almond milk instead of regular milk
- Can be made vegan by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken
Epic Ending
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of gluten-free orange chicken, a crispy, tangy, and satisfying meal that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Experiment with different variations and enjoy this delicious dish as part of your healthy and gluten-free lifestyle.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use other gluten-free flours instead of cornstarch?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends, such as almond flour, coconut flour, or tapioca starch.
2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add this slurry to the simmering sauce and stir until thickened.
3. Can I freeze the orange chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked orange chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
4. What are some healthy side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
Brown rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables are all excellent healthy side dishes for orange chicken.
5. How do I make the dish less sweet?
Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce or omit it altogether.
