Craving chinese? dive into our foolproof homemade orange chicken recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine with our foolproof orange chicken recipe simpol. This dish, a beloved classic, combines crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, creating an irresistible culinary experience. With our step-by-step guide and simple ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish 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
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten egg, then roll them in the cornstarch mixture again.

Making the Orange Sauce:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Frying the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Assembling the Orange Chicken:

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the prepared orange sauce and stir to coat.
2. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Success

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture.
• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white vinegar.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
• Honey Orange Chicken: Replace the brown sugar with an additional tablespoon of honey.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the finished dish.
• General Tso’s Chicken: Use dark soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and add a bit of hoisin sauce to the orange sauce.

Healthier Options

• Baked Orange Chicken: Instead of frying the chicken, bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Air Fryer Orange Chicken: Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Whole Wheat Orange Chicken: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier coating.

What to Serve with Orange Chicken

• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice
• Noodles: Chow mein, lo mein, or ramen noodles
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas
• Sides: Egg rolls, spring rolls, or fortune cookies

Beyond the Recipe

• History of Orange Chicken: This popular dish is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1970s.
• Cultural Significance: Orange chicken has become a beloved dish in American-Chinese cuisine, often served in restaurants and takeout menus.
• Health Benefits: Orange chicken, when prepared with healthier ingredients, can provide some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C from the orange juice.

Wrap-Up: A Taste of Culinary Delight

With our simpol orange chicken recipe, you can effortlessly create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends. Its crispy chicken, tangy orange sauce, and versatile serving options make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can. Just thaw the chicken completely before using it.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have orange juice?
A: You can substitute pineapple juice, apple juice, or even water. However, the flavor will not be as authentic.

Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.