Crispy Orange Chicken
Introduction
With its sticky sweet-and-sour orange sauce coating crispy fried chicken, crispy orange chicken is a beloved Chinese takeout dish now easily made at home. Marinating chicken in orange juice and spices, then frying and tossing it in a quick orange sauce, results in an addictive balance of sweet, savory and tangy flavors with a crunchy exterior. Serve on a bed of rice or noodles for a colorful, tasty meal the whole family will enjoy.
History of Orange Chicken
Crispy orange chicken originated in the Hunan province of China. It was later popularized in the United States by Chinese restaurants and takeout joints as a sweeter, tangier spin on general tso’s chicken.
Benefits of Orange Chicken
When made at home, orange chicken can offer some benefits:
- More control over ingredients than takeout
- Can use healthier frying methods like air frying
- Chance to reduce sugar and sodium
- Added vitamins and antioxidants from fresh orange and peppers
- Protein from chicken to support muscles
Ingredients
Crispy orange chicken requires just a few inexpensive ingredients:
- Chicken - breasts, thighs, tenders
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
- Orange juice
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Orange marmalade
- Green onions
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Recipe
Marinate the Chicken
Whisk orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate 30 minutes.
Bread the Chicken
Place cornstarch in one bowl and beaten eggs in another. Coat chicken in cornstarch, then egg, then back in cornstarch.
Fry the Chicken
Heat 1⁄2 inch oil in pan over medium heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Orange Sauce
Whisk orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and chili flakes in a small bowl.
Toss Chicken and Serve
Toss fried chicken with prepared orange sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Enjoy over rice.
Recipe Variations
Customize your crispy orange chicken with these fun options:
- Use broccoli, carrots, cauliflower instead of chicken
- Replace orange juice with pineapple, grapefruit, or lemon
- Use almond slivers, cashews or peanuts for crunch
- Add chili paste, hoisin, or ginger to the sauce
- Toss fried shallots or fried garlic in the sauce
- Use brown rice vinegar instead of rice vinegar
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes
Healthy Alternatives
- Air fry instead of deep frying
- Use less oil by baking chicken after breading
- Replace white rice with cauliflower rice
- Use light orange marmalade
- Bulk up with stir-fried veggies
Serving Suggestions
Crispy orange chicken is great as:
- A weeknight dinner
- Takeout alternative
- Potluck side dish
- Game day appetizer
- Meal prep lunch
Meal Ideas
Pair crispy orange chicken with:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Lo mein or fried rice
- Stir fry veggies
- Egg drop or hot and sour soup
- Crab rangoons
- Wonton soup
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in sealed containers up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving. Freeze leftovers up to 2-3 months.
Storage Tips
- Allow to cool before packing
- Store chicken and sauce separately
- Use shallow airtight containers
- Avoid frequent temperature changes
Reheating
- Microwave chicken gently with a splash of water
- Sauté chicken in a skillet until heated through
- Stir sauce over low heat until warm
Common Questions
What's the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken breasts, tenders, and thighs all work well. Cut larger pieces into 1 inch chunks.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, try baking instead of frying and use reduced sodium soy sauce and light marmalade.
Can I use tangerine or clementine instead of orange?
Absolutely, any citrus juice and zest can be substituted for a flavor twist.
Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?
Yes, cornstarch creates a super crispy coating. Just use 1/4 cup for dredging.
Is orange chicken gluten free?
Yes, as written this recipe does not contain any gluten. Just substitute cornstarch for regular flour.
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