Easy and delicious: master the perfect orange chicken recipe with vegetables
What To Know
- In a separate skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add orange chicken with vegetables to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of our exquisite Orange Chicken Recipe with Vegetables. This vibrant dish combines the sweet and tangy notes of orange sauce with the crisp freshness of vegetables, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your palate.
Ingredients for the Orange Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Ingredients for the Orange Sauce
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Ingredients for the Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and cornstarch. Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Cook the Vegetables: In a separate skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Combine the Chicken and Vegetables: Add the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions and serve over rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and vegetables will result in a more vibrant and flavorful dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will become tough and dry.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or brown sugar. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Orange chicken with vegetables pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed broccoli.
Health Benefits
This Orange Chicken Recipe with Vegetables is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Chicken: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Vegetables: Excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Orange Sauce: Contains vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Variations
- Add Other Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas, green beans, or mushrooms.
- Use a Different Meat: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a celiac-friendly version.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve small portions of orange chicken with vegetables as an appetizer or finger food.
- As a Main Course: Serve orange chicken with vegetables over rice or noodles for a satisfying main course.
- In a Salad: Add orange chicken with vegetables to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
The Final Verdict
Our Orange Chicken Recipe with Vegetables is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your taste buds and nourish your body. With its tantalizing flavors, vibrant colors, and versatility, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
A: You can substitute white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and cook until thickened.
Q: Can I store leftovers of this dish?
A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with this recipe?
A: Some healthy side dishes include steamed broccoli, brown rice, or a side salad.