Master the magic: create crispy and delicious orange chicken without cornstarch

Are you craving the crispy, tangy goodness of orange chicken but don’t have any cornstarch on hand? Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through a foolproof method of making orange chicken without cornstarch, ensuring that you enjoy this beloved dish without compromising its deliciousness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

2. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the orange sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, orange zest, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combine the chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the orange sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.

6. Simmer: Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.

7. Serve: Serve the orange chicken immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice or noodles.

Tips:

• For a crispier chicken, double-dredge it in the flour mixture.
• If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with pineapple juice or apple juice.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Garnish the orange chicken with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

Variations:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Low-carb: Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce.
• Vegetarian: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.

Benefits of Making Orange Chicken Without Cornstarch:

• Gluten-free: Cornstarch contains gluten, so this recipe is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Healthier: Cornstarch is a processed ingredient, while this recipe uses natural ingredients like flour.
• Tastes just as good: Despite not using cornstarch, this orange chicken recipe delivers the same crispy texture and tangy flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Making orange chicken without cornstarch is not only possible but also easy and delicious. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy this beloved dish without sacrificing its irresistible flavor. So, next time you crave orange chicken, don’t let the lack of cornstarch stop you from indulging in this culinary delight.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use cornstarch as a substitute for flour in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for flour in a 1:1 ratio. However, keep in mind that cornstarch will not provide the same crispy texture as flour.

Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or steamed broccoli.