Indulge in a sweet and savory craving: how to make orange chicken from scratch using marmalade
Orange chicken, a beloved dish tantalizing taste buds worldwide, is renowned for its crispy exterior and tangy, sweet-savory sauce. While traditional recipes call for fresh oranges, this tantalizing variation introduces the irresistible allure of orange marmalade, promising an explosion of citrusy delight.
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 egg, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. Dip the chicken pieces in the egg, then dredge them in the flour mixture.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and stir to coat. Cook for an additional minute or two, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the orange chicken immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality orange marmalade for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
- Serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Variations:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
Healthier Options:
- Baked Orange Chicken: Instead of frying the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Whole-Wheat Orange Chicken: Use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier coating.
- Reduced-Sugar Orange Chicken: Use a sugar-free orange marmalade or reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce to cut down on calories.
“The End is Nigh”: Wrapping Up with a Twist
Indulge in the symphony of flavors that is orange chicken using orange marmalade. With its crispy exterior, tantalizing sauce, and endless possibilities for customization, this dish will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on an epicurean journey that will leave your taste buds singing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use store-bought orange marmalade for this recipe?
A: Yes, store-bought orange marmalade is perfectly acceptable. However, choose a high-quality brand that uses real oranges and minimal added sugar.
Q: What can I substitute for orange marmalade if I don’t have any?
A: You can substitute a mixture of fresh orange juice and honey in equal parts. However, the flavor will not be quite as intense.
Q: How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can make the orange chicken sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken and add it to the sauce.
