Crave-worthy orange chicken: our secret recipe uses orange juice concentrate for an explosive flavor

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade orange chicken with our easy-to-follow orange chicken recipe with orange juice concentrate. This tantalizing dish combines juicy chicken pieces coated in a delectable orange sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange juice concentrate
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garnish:

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, and soy sauce. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Make the Orange Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the orange sauce.

5. Add the Sauce to the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is evenly coated, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the orange chicken immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh orange juice concentrate: For the best flavor, use fresh orange juice concentrate instead of frozen or canned.
• Adjust the sauce to your taste: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or brown sugar. If you want a tangier sauce, add more orange juice concentrate or rice vinegar.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become tough and dry. Cook the chicken just until it is cooked through.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil to the orange sauce and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce.

Healthier Options

• Baked Orange Chicken: Instead of frying the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Use whole-wheat flour: Substitute cornstarch with whole-wheat flour for a healthier coating.
• Reduce the sugar: Use less brown sugar or honey in the orange sauce to reduce the sugar content.

Wrapping Up: A Culinary Symphony of Sweet and Tangy Delights

Our orange chicken recipe with orange juice concentrate is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for a special occasion, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: If your sauce is too thick, add a little bit of water or orange juice until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce according to the instructions. Then, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.