What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this orange chicken recipe with orange juice is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the orange sauce for a sweet and sour flavor profile.
Orange chicken with orange juice is a tantalizing dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and aromas. This classic recipe combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory richness of chicken, creating a culinary experience that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this orange chicken recipe with orange juice is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
1. Preparation:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
- Working in batches, add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
3. Making the Orange Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and orange zest.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Combining the Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the orange sauce.
- Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken
1. Crispy Chicken:
- Make sure the chicken pieces are coated evenly in the cornstarch mixture before frying.
- Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
2. Flavorful Orange Sauce:
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- Simmer the orange sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar and rice vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
3. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the orange chicken with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices or chopped cilantro for added color and flavor.
- Drizzle any remaining orange sauce over the chicken and rice for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations on the Orange Chicken Recipe
1. Spicy Orange Chicken:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken:
- Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the orange sauce for a sweet and sour flavor profile.
3. Orange Chicken Stir-Fry:
- Add your favorite stir-fry vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, to the skillet along with the chicken.
4. Baked Orange Chicken:
- Instead of frying the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Air Fryer Orange Chicken:
- Coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture and spray them with cooking oil.
- Air fry the chicken at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Healthier Orange Chicken Options
1. Reduced-Oil Orange Chicken:
- Use a nonstick skillet and reduce the amount of vegetable oil used for frying.
- Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
2. Baked or Air-Fried Orange Chicken:
- Baking or air-frying the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of fat and calories in the dish.
3. Whole-Wheat or Brown Rice:
- Serve the orange chicken with whole-wheat or brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
4. Steamed Vegetables:
- Include a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to make the meal more balanced and nutritious.
The Art of Pairing Orange Chicken with Sides
1. Steamed Rice:
- Steamed rice is a classic side dish for orange chicken, providing a neutral backdrop for the vibrant flavors of the dish.
2. Noodles:
- Noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, add a chewy texture and a different flavor profile to the meal.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables:
- Stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, provide a colorful and nutritious side dish.
4. Salad:
- A light and refreshing salad can help balance the richness of the orange chicken.
5. Spring Rolls:
- Spring rolls, filled with vegetables or meat, can be served as an appetizer or side dish.
The Perfect Occasion for Orange Chicken
1. Family Dinner:
- Orange chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for a family dinner.
2. Potlucks and Parties:
- Orange chicken is a popular dish to bring to potlucks and parties due to its easy preparation and universal appeal.
3. Casual Get-Togethers:
- Orange chicken is a great option for casual get-togethers with friends and family.
4. Game Night:
- Serve orange chicken as a main course during game night for a fun and flavorful meal.
5. Movie Night:
- Orange chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish to enjoy during a movie night at home.
In a nutshell: A Culinary Symphony of Citrus and Savory Delights
Orange chicken with orange juice is a delectable dish that combines the vibrant flavors of oranges with the savory richness of chicken. With its crispy coating, tangy sauce, and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Experiment with different variations and sides to create a unique and memorable dining experience that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
A: Some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken include steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, salad, and spring rolls.
