Orange chicken revolution: bake it, don’t fry it, for a guiltless feast

Are you craving the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken without the guilt of deep-frying? Look no further! Our baked orange chicken recipe offers a delectable symphony of crispy, juicy chicken coated in a tangy orange sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Prepare the Orange Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, orange zest, and ginger.

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

4. Bake the Chicken: Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

5. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is baking, heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the orange sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and add it to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked orange chicken immediately, garnished with fresh orange slices or chopped green onions.

Tips for Success:

• For a crispier chicken, marinate it for longer.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when baking the chicken.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or orange juice to thin it out.
• Serve the baked orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Health Benefits of Orange Chicken Recipe Baked:

• Reduced Fat: Baking the chicken instead of deep-frying significantly reduces the fat content.
• Increased Fiber: The orange sauce contains fiber from the orange juice, which promotes digestive health.
• Vitamin C: Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C, which supports immunity and skin health.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the baked chicken before serving.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory twist.

The Final Verdict:

Our baked orange chicken recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the crispy texture of fried chicken with the tangy, flavorful sauce of traditional orange chicken. It’s a healthier, guilt-free alternative that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this delightful culinary journey!

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

2. How do I store leftover baked orange chicken?
Store leftover baked orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to overnight and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, bring the chicken to room temperature before baking.