Unlock the secret to perfect orange chicken: our juice-infused recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of an authentic orange chicken recipe using the zesty goodness of fresh orange juice. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients for the Perfect Orange Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For Coating:

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup cornstarch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Create the Orange Sauce

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, orange zest, ground ginger, and garlic powder. Set aside.

3. Coat the Chicken

• In a shallow dish, place the cornstarch. Dip the chicken pieces into the cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Fry the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Make the Sauce

• Pour the reserved orange sauce into the skillet with the fried chicken.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with additional orange zest or chopped green onions.
• Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Tips for a Flavorful Orange Chicken

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness.
• Serve the orange chicken over a bed of fresh greens for a healthier option.

Variations on the Orange Chicken Recipe

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha or chili sauce to the orange sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Orange Chicken: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a sweeter flavor.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Orange Chicken

• Rich in Vitamin C: Orange juice is packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient for immune system function.
• Good Source of Protein: Chicken is a lean protein source that aids in muscle growth and repair.
• Contains Antioxidants: Oranges contain antioxidants that help protect against damage caused by free radicals.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving a delicious treat, this orange chicken recipe using orange juice is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Its sweet and tangy flavors are sure to please everyone at the table.

Top Questions Asked

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before following the recipe steps.

• What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can substitute white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in equal amounts.

• How do I store leftover orange chicken?

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.

• What side dishes go well with orange chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad are all great options to serve with orange chicken.