Master the art of orange chicken with our easy recipe: chicken thighs for maximum flavor and crunch!

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our tantalizing orange chicken recipe chicken thighs. This culinary masterpiece combines the sweet and tangy flavors of orange with the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs, creating a dish that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to guide you through every step with ease.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients for the orange sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce the Sauce: Continue simmering the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and pour the orange sauce over it. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
7. Cook and Serve: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has heated through. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

• Crispy Chicken: To achieve extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar to suit your desired sweetness level.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
• Freshness Matters: Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for longer to thicken it.

Variations

• Chicken Breasts: Swap out the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, to the skillet with the chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornstarch and soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

One serving of orange chicken recipe chicken thighs contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

Final Thoughts

This orange chicken recipe chicken thighs is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or as part of a larger meal. Its sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the tender chicken, make it a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, give this recipe a try and let the flavors transport you to a culinary paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken thighs in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Just thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: What can I serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Q: How can I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.