The Best Orange Chicken Sauce Recipe – Super Easy And Delicious!

Craving that tantalizing, lip-smacking orange chicken from your favorite Chinese restaurant? Now you can recreate the magic in the comfort of your own kitchen with this comprehensive guide on how to make orange chicken sauce easy. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips to whip up a delectable sauce that will elevate your chicken dishes to new heights.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. Whisk to blend well. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the chicken broth, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, vegetable oil, garlic, orange zest, and ginger.

3. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper to your preference.

5. Drain the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Drain the chicken well on paper towels.

6. Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

7. Add the Sauce: Pour the orange chicken sauce over the cooked chicken. Toss to coat evenly.

8. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro and serve over rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken Sauce:

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the sauce. It should be slightly thickened but still pourable.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
• If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a bit more cornstarch.
• Experiment with different spices, such as red pepper flakes or sesame oil, to customize the flavor.

Variations on Orange Chicken Sauce:

• Spicy Orange Chicken Sauce: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Sauce: Add 1/4 cup of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the sauce.
• Sesame Orange Chicken Sauce: Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the sauce.

Benefits of Homemade Orange Chicken Sauce:

• Control over ingredients and flavors
• No artificial preservatives or additives
• Healthier than restaurant-style sauces
• Budget-friendly

FAQ:

1. Can I use other citrus juices instead of orange juice?
Yes, you can use lemon juice, grapefruit juice, or a combination of citrus juices.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3. How long can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

5. What are some good sides to serve with orange chicken?
Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or stir-fried vegetables.

Conclusion:

With this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll be able to create a delectable orange chicken sauce that rivals your favorite restaurant. Experiment with variations and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a delicious meal from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to expand your culinary skills, this recipe will empower you to impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering dish.