Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish, featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that makes for a delicious meal, especially when served over rice or noodles.
Orange Chicken – Sweet and Tangy Chinese-American Delight
Orange Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that combines crispy, battered chicken with a sweet and tangy orange-flavored sauce. This dish is known for its delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a favorite at many Chinese restaurants and takeout menus. Orange Chicken is a harmonious blend of savory and citrusy elements that pleases the palate.
Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 Egg beaten
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup Orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/3 cup Sugar
- 1/4 cup Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon Orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dip the chicken pieces in the beaten egg, then coat them evenly with cornstarch.
- Shake off any excess cornstarch.
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add red chili flakes if using. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan with the orange sauce.
- Toss well to ensure each piece is coated with the sauce.
Serve:
- Serve the orange chicken hot, garnished with additional orange zest or green onions, if desired.
- It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
Tips and Information
Conclusion:
Orange Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Its delightful contrast of textures and flavors makes it a favorite comfort food for many. Whether enjoyed as part of a Chinese takeout meal or homemade for a special occasion, Orange Chicken continues to be a sweet and savory delight that satisfies the taste buds.Tips and Overview
- Chicken: You can use chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Cornstarch Coating: The cornstarch creates a crispy exterior. Ensure a light, even coat for the best texture.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice offers a better flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
- Adjusting Flavors: Balance the sweetness and tanginess to your taste by adjusting the amount of sugar and vinegar.
- Serving Suggestion: Orange chicken is traditionally served with a side of rice. For a healthier option, serve it with steamed vegetables.