chinese food recipes orange chicken

Amanda Recipes January 31, 2025January 31, 2025

Chinese Food Recipes Orange Chicken

If you’re looking to whip up a delicious meal, Orange Chicken is a fantastic choice. This dish combines crispy chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a favorite for many. It’s quick to prepare, taking under 30 minutes, and can easily fit various dietary needs. Plus, you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Want to know more about its history and how to make it at home?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this recipe, you’ll discover a fantastic blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience.

You’ll enjoy a dish that’s lower in added sugars and calories compared to traditional takeout.

With options that are gluten-free, Whole30, paleo, and dairy-free, it’s easy to cater to various dietary needs.

Plus, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients.

The recipe allows for versatility, letting you customize spice levels and choose different cooking methods, like baking or sautéing.

You’ll savor the balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, enhanced by fresh orange juice and zest.

Tender, juicy chicken with a crispy exterior awaits, making this a delightful and healthy meal option for you and your family. Additionally, this dish provides moderate sodium content, making it a great option for those watching their salt intake.

History

Exploring the history of orange chicken reveals how this dish evolved from its traditional roots to become a popular favorite in American cuisine.

Its origins trace back to China’s Hunan province, where a dish called “tangerine chicken” is known. In the 1800s, Chinese immigrants from the Guandong district adapted their cuisine to American tastes, leading to the sweeter, deep-fried version you enjoy today.

This transformation was influenced by the popularity of General Tso’s Chicken, another Americanized Chinese dish. In 1987, Chef Andy Kao created the original Chinese-American orange chicken recipe at Panda Express in Hawaii.

Despite its success in the U.S., you’ll rarely find orange chicken served in restaurants in China.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup fresh or store-bought orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup sugar (white or brown)
– 1 egg (for marinating)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon minced ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– Orange zest (for garnish)
– Green onions (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Oil (for frying)

Cooking Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, mix together the flour and remaining cornstarch. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring they’re well coated.
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this slurry to the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 30-60 seconds. Remove from heat and add orange zest for extra flavor.
Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice and garnish with green onions, orange zest, and sesame seeds.

Extra Tips:

For an even crispier texture, consider double frying the chicken by frying it once, letting it rest for a few minutes, and then frying it again at a higher temperature. This technique enhances the crunchiness of the chicken. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the sauce according to your preference by adding more sugar or chili flakes. Chinese Orange Chicken is a popular dish among children, often requested for take-out, making this homemade recipe a great alternative! Enjoy your homemade orange chicken!

Final Thoughts

Making your own orange chicken at home not only allows you to enjoy a delicious meal but also gives you control over the ingredients and nutrition. When you prepare it yourself, you can adjust the calorie and fat content, making it healthier than restaurant options.

Most restaurant versions pack a hefty calorie count, often over 400 per serving, with high fat and sodium levels. By using fresh ingredients, you can reduce added sugars and increase fiber, benefiting your overall health. Additionally, the incorporation of a vodka-spiked marinade in your homemade version ensures a crispier texture without the extra gluten, enhancing your dining experience.

Plus, cooking at home lets you enjoy a good source of protein while limiting unhealthy fats. This approach not only enhances your meal but also promotes better eating habits, making your home-cooked orange chicken a smart choice for your diet.

FAQ

Have questions about making orange chicken at home? You’re not alone!

First, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and texture. Marinate the chicken in eggs, salt, and white pepper before coating it with a cornstarch and flour mixture. This creates a crispy exterior.

For the sauce, mix fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and ginger. Thicken it with cornstarch mixed in water. Don’t forget to simmer the sauce until it reduces! Using a cast iron wok can greatly improve your frying results and make the cooking process more enjoyable.

When serving, top your dish with green onions or sesame seeds, and consider pairing it with rice or Asian sides like crispy duck. If you want a spicy kick, add sriracha for a unique twist!

Enjoy your cooking!