Sweet and Tangy Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Sweet and Tangy Chinese Orange Chicken, a delightful blend of crispy chicken coated in a vibrant, citrusy sauce. This recipe captures the essence of classic Chinese cuisine with a burst of orange zest and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 cup per serving

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g

Ingredients List

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 120g (1 cup) cornstarch
• 240ml (1 cup) vegetable oil, for frying
• 120ml (1/2 cup) fresh orange juice
• 60ml (1/4 cup) soy sauce
• 30ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar
• 30ml (2 tbsp) honey
• 15ml (1 tbsp) cornstarch mixed with 15ml (1 tbsp) water
• 15ml (1 tbsp) grated orange zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 15ml (1 tbsp) grated ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 5ml (1 tsp) sesame seeds

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a large bowl, coat the chicken pieces evenly with cornstarch.
2. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the coated chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch mixture, and orange zest. Stir well.
4. Cook the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the orange sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   • Add the fried chicken pieces back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Crispy Chicken Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more orange juice. If it’s too thin, mix in a bit more cornstarch slurry.
• Ingredient Substitutes: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  • Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
  • Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• What can I serve with Chinese Orange Chicken?
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, fried rice, or lo mein noodles.

Experience the delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors with this homemade Chinese Orange Chicken recipe. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant sauce and crispy chicken. Try it today and savor the authentic taste of Sweet and Tangy Chinese Orange Chicken!