Unlock the secrets of perfect orange chicken: step-by-step guide from ree drummond

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Ree Drummond’s orange chicken recipe, a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly combines the sweet and savory notes of Eastern cuisine. This delectable dish will transport your taste buds to a realm of gastronomic bliss, leaving you craving for more.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Coating

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg, then roll them in the cornstarch mixture to coat.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Sauce the Chicken: Drain the chicken on paper towels. Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
6. Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips

• For a crispy chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
• If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with white wine vinegar.
• To make the sauce ahead of time, simply whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving for an extra nutty flavor.

Benefits

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Oranges are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
• Low in Calories: This recipe is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with Rice: Orange chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or brown rice.
• Add Noodles: Toss in some cooked noodles, such as ramen or udon, to make a more substantial meal.
• Complement with Vegetables: Serve the orange chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

Alternatives

• Air Fryer Orange Chicken: Instead of frying, cook the chicken in an air fryer for a healthier alternative.
• Baked Orange Chicken: Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: Place the chicken and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Summary

Ree Drummond’s orange chicken recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your senses.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1. Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. However, they may take a bit longer to cook.

Q2. What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
A2. You can substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Q3. How long can I store the leftovers?
A3. The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q4. Can I freeze the orange chicken?
A4. Yes, you can freeze the orange chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q5. How do I reheat the orange chicken?
A5. You can reheat the orange chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.