Transform chicken breast into succulent orange chicken: a guide to perfecting the classic dish

Orange chicken, a beloved dish known for its tangy-sweet sauce and crispy chicken, is a culinary delight that can be easily recreated at home. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to make orange chicken with chicken breast, ensuring a restaurant-quality dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Orange Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine all the ingredients for the orange sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and toss to coat evenly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch and flour mixture.
• To make the sauce thicker, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and simmer until desired consistency.
• If you don’t have fresh ginger or garlic, use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger or garlic powder instead.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder to the sauce.

Nutritional Information:

One serving of orange chicken with chicken breast contains approximately:

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

The Joy of Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a dish that brings joy to both the cook and the eater. The vibrant orange sauce, crispy chicken, and sweet-tangy flavor create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious meal, orange chicken is a dish that will surely impress.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe. However, the cooking time may vary slightly.

2. How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and simmer until desired consistency.

3. What can I serve with orange chicken?

Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

4. Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make orange chicken ahead of time. Simply fry the chicken and make the sauce separately. When ready to serve, combine the chicken and sauce and reheat over medium heat.

5. How do I store leftover orange chicken?

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.