Uncover the culinary delight: buzzfeed’s exclusive orange chicken recipe

Prepare yourself for a tantalizing culinary journey with our Buzzfeed-inspired orange chicken recipe. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of orange, the savoriness of soy sauce, and the crunch of fried chicken, creating an explosion of taste that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, this recipe will guide you through every step to create a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 onion, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, salt, and black 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: Add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
4. Create the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a small amount of oil in the same skillet used to fry the chicken. Add the green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion and sauté until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine Sauce and Chicken: Add the fried chicken to the sautéed vegetables and pour over the prepared sauce. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
7. Cook and Serve: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in flour.
• If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
• To add a touch of sweetness, drizzle some honey over the finished dish before serving.
• Serve with a side of orange slices for a refreshing and tangy complement.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Broccoli Orange Chicken: Add broccoli florets to the sautéed vegetables for a nutritious and colorful addition.
• Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add chunks of pineapple to the sauce for a sweet and tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice.
• Pair with egg noodles for a classic Chinese-style dish.
• Accompany with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing green salad.

Perfecting Your Presentation:

• Arrange the orange chicken pieces on a serving platter and garnish with fresh orange slices and chopped green onions.
• Drizzle with a bit of the remaining sauce for an elegant touch.
• Serve in a traditional Chinese bowl or on a modern white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.

Instead of Conclusion:

Embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful Buzzfeed-inspired orange chicken recipe. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a satisfying meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress and delight. Experiment with variations and serving suggestions to create a memorable and mouthwatering experience.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer and more flavorful dish.

Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to the dish?
A: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as sliced carrots, celery, or zucchini.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before using.

Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
A: Consider serving steamed vegetables, brown rice, or a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.