Discover the easy way to enjoy orange chicken without the mess: unbreaded recipe revealed!
What To Know
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and salt.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken without the hassle of breading. This delectable recipe offers a crispy, tangy, and juicy experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/3 cup orange juice
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Shake off any excess marinade from the chicken pieces. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and salt.
5. Combine the Sauce and Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the sauce over it. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and glazed the chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Sweet Orange Chicken: Increase the brown sugar to 1/2 cup for a sweeter flavor.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for the brown sugar for a richer, more complex sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become tough and dry.
- Let the sauce simmer: Simmering the sauce for a few minutes will allow it to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve immediately: Orange chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Healthier Options
- Use lean chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean protein option.
- Reduce the sugar: Use less brown sugar or substitute honey for a healthier sweetness.
- Steam the chicken: Steaming the chicken instead of frying it reduces the fat content.
Orange Chicken: A Versatile Delicacy
This orange chicken recipe not breaded is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even as a filling for tacos or wraps. Its tangy, crispy, and juicy flavors will complement any meal or occasion.
The Art of Pairing
Orange chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Rice: Steamed rice is a classic pairing that complements the flavors of orange chicken perfectly.
- Noodles: Lo mein, chow mein, or rice noodles add a hearty and flavorful element to the dish.
- Vegetables: Stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers provide a healthy and colorful accompaniment.
- Drinks: A refreshing glass of orange juice, iced tea, or sparkling water complements the tangy flavors of orange chicken.
A Culinary Symphony
This orange chicken recipe not breaded is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Its crispy exterior, tangy sauce, and juicy chicken create a perfect harmony that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before marinating.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Longer marinating times will result in more flavorful chicken.
Q: What if I don’t have sesame oil?
A: If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute olive oil or vegetable oil.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.
