Stovetop magic: transform frozen orange chicken into a culinary delight
Frozen orange chicken is a quick and convenient meal option that can be easily prepared on the stovetop. With its sweet and tangy sauce, crispy coating, and tender chicken, it’s a family favorite that satisfies cravings without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking frozen orange chicken on the stovetop, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 bag (16 ounces) frozen orange chicken
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
2. Heat the Oil
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add the frozen orange chicken to the hot oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Reduce Heat and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the orange chicken hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
Tips for Success
- For a crispier coating, fry the chicken in a deep fryer or air fryer instead of a skillet.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.
- Serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
- Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use frozen breaded chicken instead of orange chicken.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use a different type of marmalade, such as lemon or strawberry, for a different flavor profile.
- Top the orange chicken with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch.
The Perfect Meal
Cooking frozen orange chicken on the stovetop is a quick and easy way to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re short on time or simply craving a flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to experience the sweet and tangy goodness of homemade orange chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh orange chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh orange chicken. Simply coat the chicken in the prepared sauce and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
2. How long can I store leftover orange chicken?
Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. What are some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
