No vinegar, no problem: discover the ultimate orange chicken recipe
What To Know
- For a spicier orange chicken, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Its perfect balance of flavors, crispy texture, and health benefits make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or snack.
- Add a little more cornstarch to the sauce and cook it for a few minutes longer.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken without the overpowering twang of vinegar! This culinary masterpiece offers a delectable blend of sweet, savory, and crispy textures that will leave your taste buds singing. Our orange chicken recipe without vinegar is perfect for those who prefer a more balanced and harmonious flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for deep-frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
3. Fry the Chicken: Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Orange Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, orange zest, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and stir to coat. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh orange slices and green onions. Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat it with the cornstarch and flour mixture.
- If you don’t have orange zest, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried orange peel.
- To make a vegetarian version, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
- For a spicier orange chicken, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Health Benefits
Orange chicken without vinegar is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Chicken: A good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Orange juice: Rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity.
- Honey: Contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a dash of chili powder or Sriracha sauce to the orange sauce.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Use all honey instead of brown sugar for a sweeter sauce.
Summary
Our orange chicken recipe without vinegar is a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Its perfect balance of flavors, crispy texture, and health benefits make it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, appetizer, or snack. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to a realm of pure delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other citrus juices instead of orange juice?
A: Yes, you can use grapefruit juice, lemon juice, or a combination for a different flavor profile.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Add a little more cornstarch to the sauce and cook it for a few minutes longer.
Q: What should I serve with orange chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments.
Q: Can I freeze the orange chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: How do I make a gluten-free orange chicken?
A: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
