Orange Chicken

There’s something truly magical about Orange Chicken that transports me back to my favorite Asian restaurant. You know, the one where the aroma of sweet and savory sauces fills the air, and the crispy chicken is served steaming hot? I remember the first time I tried it – the perfect blend of tangy orange flavor with a hint of spice. It was love at first bite! Now, I can recreate that same feeling in my own kitchen, and you can too. Making Orange Chicken is not just about satisfying a craving; it’s about bringing joy and comfort to the table. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Everything You Need for Orange Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Orange Chicken. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect taste and texture. Let’s dive into these key players!

• 1 pound frozen crispy chicken strips: These form the base of the dish, providing the beloved crispy texture that Orange Chicken is known for.
• 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Garlic brings depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste: Ginger adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness of the oranges.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: This ingredient brings heat and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Essential for creating the syrupy sweetness that coats the chicken.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar: This adds a hint of molasses flavor to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup white vinegar: A key player in balancing the sweetness and adding acidity.
• 1 to 2 large oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest from these oranges provide the signature flavor of the dish.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: This salty component adds depth and umami.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water: This mixture will help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Cooked rice: Optional, but highly recommended for serving!

How to Make Orange Chicken

Making your own Orange Chicken at home is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a meal that will impress both family and friends.

1. Start by preparing the frozen chicken strips according to the package directions. I like air frying them best—they’re done in about 11 to 12 minutes! Let them cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl.
2. Meanwhile, set a medium pot over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the minced garlic, ginger paste, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Next, add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and the zest of 1 to 2 oranges (this is optional, but it really enhances the flavor!). Stir to moisten the sugar, then pour in 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Now, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/4 cup of soy sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
5. In a separate small bowl, use a whisk or fork to mix 1/4 cup of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the sauce and stir well.
6. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency. It should be glossy and stick to the back of a spoon.
7. Taste your sauce and adjust it according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes. If it’s too sweet, a pinch of salt can help balance it out.
8. Pour the sauce over the cut-up chicken pieces, using as much as you like. Toss everything gently to ensure the chicken is well coated.
9. Drizzle the remaining 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil over the coated chicken. Serve immediately! I love to serve mine over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a delightful presentation.

Helpful Hints

Here are some handy tips to make your Orange Chicken experience even better! From storage to serving suggestions, we’ve got you covered.

• Storage: Store any leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve your Orange Chicken over fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make it a meal: Add a side of spring rolls or dumplings for a fun, restaurant-style dinner.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds a lovely touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Orange Chicken

Serving Orange Chicken is a delightful experience that can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Over Rice: A classic pairing! Serve your Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, allowing the sauce to soak in.
• With Noodles: Try serving it over cooked noodles for a tasty twist. It’s a great way to soak up all the delicious sauce!
• As a Casual Dinner: This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners with family. Set the table, pour some drinks, and enjoy a cozy evening together.
• For Gatherings: If hosting a party, serve Orange Chicken as part of a buffet. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
• Leftovers for Lunch: Pack any leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s easy to reheat and tastes just as good!
• Seasonal Celebrations: Enjoy this dish during special occasions like birthdays or holidays to add a touch of festivity to your meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Orange Chicken recipe truly captures the essence of comfort food with its sweet and tangy flavors. It’s simple to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish will impress everyone. I encourage you to give it a try tonight and experience the joy it brings to your table!

Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Orange Chicken features crispy chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy orange sauce. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner that satisfies every craving!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 18 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 490 kcal

Equipment

• Medium Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound frozen crispy chicken strips see note 1
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil divided
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic see note 2
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1 to 2 large oranges
• 1/4 cup soy sauce not lite
• 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water
• 1 serving Cooked rice optional, for serving
• 1 serving Serving suggestions optional

Instructions

 

• Start by preparing the frozen chicken strips according to the package directions. I like air frying them best—they’re done in about 11 to 12 minutes! Let them cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl.
• Meanwhile, set a medium pot over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the minced garlic, ginger paste, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Next, add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and the zest of 1 to 2 oranges (this is optional, but it really enhances the flavor!). Stir to moisten the sugar, then pour in 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
• Now, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1/4 cup of soy sauce. Stir to combine everything well.
• In a separate small bowl, use a whisk or fork to mix 1/4 cup of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the sauce and stir well.
• Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency. It should be glossy and stick to the back of a spoon.
• Taste your sauce and adjust it according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes. If it’s too sweet, a pinch of salt can help balance it out.
• Pour the sauce over the cut-up chicken pieces, using as much as you like. Toss everything gently to ensure the chicken is well coated.
• Drizzle the remaining 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil over the coated chicken. Serve immediately! I love to serve mine over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a delightful presentation.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve your Orange Chicken over fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Try serving it over cooked noodles for a tasty twist. It’s a great way to soak up all the delicious sauce!
• Tip 5: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions adds a lovely touch of flavor and presentation.

Keyword Asian Cuisine, easy chicken recipe, Homemade Orange Chicken, Orange Chicken