Elevate your dinner game: try this chef-approved orange chicken recipe in a wok
What To Know
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
- Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the orange sauce for a kick.
- Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a flavorful meal on a weeknight, our orange chicken recipe in wok is the perfect choice.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of our orange chicken recipe in wok, a dish that harmoniously blends the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory richness of chicken. This culinary creation is a symphony of flavors that will ignite your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 onion, cut into strips
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Orange Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and orange zest. Set aside.
3. Heat the Wok: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the wok and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the bell pepper and onion to the wok and sauté until tender-crisp.
6. Return the Chicken: Add the chicken back to the wok and pour in the orange sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for a Perfect Orange Chicken
- Use fresh orange juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Variations to Suit Your Taste
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the orange sauce for a kick.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for brown sugar in the orange sauce for a sweeter and garlicky flavor.
- Orange Chicken with Asparagus: Add a handful of asparagus spears to the wok with the vegetables for a healthy twist.
Benefits of Orange Chicken
Not only is orange chicken a delectable dish, but it also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein-rich: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Vitamin C-rich: Oranges are loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function.
- Good source of fiber: The vegetables in the dish provide dietary fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a flavorful meal on a weeknight, our orange chicken recipe in wok is the perfect choice. Its vibrant flavors, versatility, and nutritional value make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Information You Need to Know
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before marinating.
Q2: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: If the sauce is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer until thickened.
Q3: What can I serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, vegetables, or egg rolls.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Cook the dish just before serving.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.