Craving Orange Chicken? Try This Easy Recipe Using Chicken Nuggets For A Quick And Tasty Meal
What To Know
- Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of garlic powder to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
- Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, these orange chicken nuggets are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
- Can I make the orange chicken nuggets in a pan instead of the oven.
Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of orange sauce with tender chicken. This recipe takes a creative twist on the classic by using chicken nuggets, making it a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen chicken nuggets
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Nuggets:
- Preheat the oven according to the package instructions for the chicken nuggets.
- Place the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and cooked through.
- Set aside the cooked chicken nuggets.
2. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and sesame oil.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering orange sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.
3. Combine the Chicken Nuggets and Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken nuggets and the orange sauce.
- Toss to coat the chicken nuggets evenly in the sauce.
4. Serve:
- Serve the orange chicken nuggets immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
- Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors!
Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken Nuggets
- Use high-quality chicken nuggets for the best flavor and texture.
- If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with a mixture of pineapple juice and lemon juice.
- Adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar to your taste preferences.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
- Serve the orange chicken nuggets with steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations on the Orange Chicken Nuggets Recipe
- Sesame Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a tablespoon of sesame seeds to the orange sauce for a nutty flavor.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of garlic powder to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
- Spicy Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
- Teriyaki Orange Chicken Nuggets: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce in the orange sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.
Summary: Delight Your Taste Buds with Orange Chicken Nuggets
This orange chicken recipe using chicken nuggets is a delightful twist on the classic dish. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, these orange chicken nuggets are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them in a pan until golden brown and cooked through before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: Can I make the orange chicken nuggets in a pan instead of the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken nuggets in a pan. Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken nuggets until golden brown and cooked through. Then, add the orange sauce and toss to coat the chicken nuggets.
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus juice instead of orange juice?
A: Yes, you can use other citrus juices such as pineapple juice, lemon juice, or grapefruit juice. However, the flavor of the orange chicken nuggets will be slightly different.