What To Know
- Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the vibrant flavors of orange zest and juice with tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter.
- For a spicier orange chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture or the orange sauce.
- Orange chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even as a filling for tacos or spring rolls.
Craving the irresistible tangy and sweet flavors of orange chicken without the hassle of cornstarch? Look no further! This blog post presents an exceptional orange chicken recipe that eliminates the need for cornstarch, delivering a crispy, flavorful dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Magic of Orange Chicken:
Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the vibrant flavors of orange zest and juice with tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter. It’s a popular choice for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a favorite among both adults and children.
The Challenge of Cornstarch:
While cornstarch is a common ingredient used to thicken sauces and create a crispy coating, it can be a hassle to work with. It often clumps, resulting in an uneven coating on the chicken. Additionally, cornstarch can leave an unpleasant aftertaste if not cooked properly.
A Cornstarch-Free Solution:
This orange chicken recipe eliminates the need for cornstarch entirely, opting for a simple combination of flour, baking powder, and spices to create a crispy coating. This not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures a delicious, evenly coated chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
To make this cornstarch-free orange chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Orange juice
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Rice vinegar
- Ginger, minced
- Garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Working in batches, fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with orange zest and green onions. Serve over rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Crispy Orange Chicken:
- Use a light hand when coating the chicken in the flour mixture to prevent clumping.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar in the sauce to your desired sweetness level.
Variations:
- For a spicier orange chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture or the orange sauce.
- Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the orange sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- For a tangier orange chicken, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the orange sauce.
- Experiment with different garnishes, such as toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or fresh cilantro.
The Perfect Pairing:
Orange chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Steamed rice
- Fried rice
- Noodles
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Salads
Beyond the Recipe:
- Orange chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even as a filling for tacos or spring rolls.
- For a healthier version, bake the chicken instead of frying it.
- Orange chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
- Freeze leftover orange chicken for up to 3 months.
The Final Verdict:
This cornstarch-free orange chicken recipe is a game-changer for those who love the flavors of orange chicken without the hassle of cornstarch. It’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delicious dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use cornstarch in this recipe?
- No, this recipe is specifically designed to be cornstarch-free. Using cornstarch will alter the texture and flavor of the dish.
2. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce according to the instructions, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together until warmed through.
5. Can I freeze this recipe?
- Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Simply cook the chicken and sauce according to the instructions, then let them cool completely. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat until warmed through.
