Unlock the secret to crispy, juicy orange chicken with thighs in just 30 minutes!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of our exquisite orange chicken recipe with thighs, where succulent chicken thighs are enveloped in a vibrant orange sauce that will ignite your taste buds. This delectable dish is a culinary masterpiece that combines the sweetness of oranges with the savory notes of ginger and soy sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

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

For the Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Orange slices
• Green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Fry the Chicken: Working in batches, carefully add the chicken to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Orange Sauce: In the same skillet, combine all the ingredients for the orange sauce. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken back to the skillet with the orange sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds, orange slices, and green onions. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying.
• If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with pineapple juice or even apple juice.
• To make the dish spicier, add more ground red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.

Variations

• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs.
• Add Vegetables: Stir-fry some vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, and add them to the orange chicken.
• Make it a Stir-Fry: Instead of frying the chicken separately, add it to the skillet with the sauce and cook everything together.
• Bake it: You can also bake the orange chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Oranges are packed with vitamins C, A, and potassium, which are important for overall health.
• Antioxidant Properties: Ginger and garlic contain antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage and inflammation.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Serve the orange chicken with steamed rice for a classic pairing.
• Noodles: Toss the orange chicken with your favorite noodles, such as ramen, soba, or udon.
• Salad: Add some orange chicken to a salad for a flavorful and protein-packed meal.
• Appetizer: Serve the orange chicken as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy dipping.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the orange sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it over medium heat before using.

Q: What if I don’t have sesame oil?
A: You can substitute sesame oil with vegetable oil or olive oil.