18 Best Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 20, 2024
Looking for the perfect Chinese orange chicken recipe? Look no further! In this article, we will share the best and most authentic way to make this popular dish at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, our step-by-step instructions and tips will help you create a flavorful and delicious orange chicken that will rival your favorite Chinese takeout spot. So put on your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouth-watering dish.
Gather These Key Ingredients for the Best Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe:
Chicken: To make this dish, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Cornstarch: This is the key ingredient for creating a crispy coating for the chicken.
Egg: Whisked egg is used to coat the chicken before it is dredged in the cornstarch mixture.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest adds a tangy and citrusy flavor to the chicken.
Soy Sauce: The salty and savory flavors of soy sauce are essential in creating an authentic Chinese taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness to the dish and balances out the salty and savory flavors.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar adds a tangy and acidic flavor to the sauce.
Garlic and Ginger: These two ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, red pepper flakes can be added to give the dish a spicy kick.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions are used as a garnish and add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Instructions
Follow These Simple Steps to Make the Best Chinese Orange Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off any excess.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Dip the coated chicken into the egg mixture, then back into the cornstarch mixture for a second coating.
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
In another pan, mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir until evenly coated. Let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot over rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Tips and Tricks
Here are Some Tips to Help You Perfect Your Orange Chicken Recipe:
Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will give the dish a brighter and more vibrant flavor compared to using store-bought juice.
Adjust the Sweetness: If the sauce is too sweet for your liking, add a splash of vinegar to balance out the flavors.
Make it Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the cornstarch for a gluten-free flour or cornstarch blend.
Now that you have the recipe for the best Chinese orange chicken, it's time to put your culinary skills to the test and impress your taste buds. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion and is sure to be a hit with everyone. So go ahead and give it a try, and don't be surprised if you find yourself making this delicious dish over and over again.