Indulge in the sweet and tangy: ultimate orange chicken recipe with marmalade

Orange chicken, a beloved culinary creation, tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant orange sauce and succulent chicken. This recipe elevates the classic dish with a homemade marmalade, infusing it with a burst of citrusy sweetness and tangy complexity.

Ingredients:

For the Marmalade:

• 2 cups oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

Making the Marmalade:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange segments, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat and reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the marmalade has thickened and become syrupy.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger-garlic paste.
2. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Return the chicken to the skillet.
2. Pour the orange marmalade sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has heated through.

Tips for Perfection:

• For a sweeter marmalade, add an additional 1/4 cup of sugar.
• If you don’t have ginger-garlic paste, use 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
• Serve the orange chicken over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.

Delightful Variations:

• Add some heat to the dish by incorporating a teaspoon of Sriracha sauce into the sauce.
• Swap out the orange marmalade for mandarin or grapefruit marmalade for a different citrusy twist.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu.

Benefits of Homemade Marmalade:

• Homemade marmalade is free of artificial preservatives and additives.
• It is packed with natural vitamin C, which supports immune health.
• The combination of citrus and sugar provides a burst of energy.

The Ultimate Orange Chicken Experience

This orange chicken recipe marmalade is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. The homemade marmalade adds a layer of complexity and freshness, elevating the dish to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe will surely impress and delight.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use store-bought marmalade instead of homemade?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought marmalade, but it may not have the same depth of flavor as homemade.

Q: What can I do if my marmalade is too thick?
A: Add a tablespoon of water to the marmalade and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

Q: How long can I store the orange chicken?
A: The orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze the orange chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the orange chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What side dishes pair well with orange chicken?
A: Jasmine rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent side dishes for orange chicken.