Orange Chicken Recipe With Ketchup: A Unique Twist On A Classic Dish

Craving a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors? Look no further! This orange chicken recipe with ketchup offers a unique and delicious twist on the classic orange chicken dish. Using ketchup as a base for the sauce adds a delightful tanginess that complements the chicken perfectly. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-follow recipe that brings a burst of citrusy goodness to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is shimmering, add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Orange Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, combine the ketchup, orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, orange zest, ground ginger, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

• Add the cooked chicken back to the saucepan with the orange sauce.
• Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

5. Serve and Garnish:

• Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
• Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken with Ketchup:

• Use fresh orange juice: Fresh orange juice adds a vibrant citrus flavor to the sauce. If you don’t have fresh oranges on hand, you can use store-bought orange juice, but make sure it’s 100% juice and not from concentrate.
• Adjust the sauce to your taste: The sauce should have a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. If you like it tangier, add more rice vinegar or orange juice.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Serve immediately: Orange chicken is best served hot and fresh. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so if you’re making it ahead of time, reheat it gently before serving.

Variations:

• Use different types of chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a great option.
• Add vegetables: Stir-fry some vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or broccoli, along with the chicken.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve with different sides: Instead of rice or noodles, try serving orange chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Health Benefits of Orange Chicken with Ketchup:

• High in protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals: Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Ketchup is a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
• Low in fat: This recipe uses vegetable oil, which is a healthier alternative to butter or lard.

“Orange You Glad You Tried This Recipe?” – A Unique Conclusion

With its delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this orange chicken recipe with ketchup is sure to become a family favorite. The ketchup adds a unique tanginess that perfectly complements the chicken, creating a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience a taste sensation like no other. Happy cooking!

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few minutes longer. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce while it’s simmering.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken gently and combine them.