Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that brings together the tangy brightness of fresh oranges with the savory flavors of crispy chicken. Known for its sweet, citrusy sauce, this dish has become a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine, often enjoyed with a side of steamed rice or noodles. The crispy coating of the chicken paired with the zesty sauce creates a delicious contrast that is both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients for Orange Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, sliced
How to Make Orange Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch and flour. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs and coat it in the dry mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Orange Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if using).
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce starts to bubble, whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
3. Combine and Serve
- Toss the Chicken: Add the crispy chicken pieces to the pan with the orange sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Frying the chicken twice ensures an extra-crispy texture that holds up well against the sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: You can adjust the sugar and vinegar in the sauce to suit your taste, depending on how sweet or tangy you prefer your dish.
- Add Heat: For a spicy twist, add more red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make It Ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat before serving.
Why Orange Chicken is So Popular
Orange Chicken is a popular dish due to its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the satisfying crunch of crispy chicken. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed by people of all ages, and its bright, citrusy flavor makes it a refreshing and flavorful choice for any meal. The dish is also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Pairing Suggestions
- Sides: Fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a light Asian cucumber salad.
- Drinks: A chilled glass of green tea, lemonade, or a light white wine.
Conclusion
Orange Chicken is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and tangy citrus sauce. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the bold, refreshing flavors of this sweet citrus delight!