Orange chicken, no orange juice required: the game-changing recipe
What To Know
- Pair your orange chicken with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving that irresistible tangy and crispy orange chicken but don’t have orange juice on hand? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide on how to make orange chicken without orange juice. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this culinary masterpiece that will leave you wondering why you ever needed orange juice in the first place.
The Perfect Chicken: Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside
1. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’re more flavorful and juicy than breasts.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Combine soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: Coat the marinated chicken in flour, then dip it into the egg wash. Finally, coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the chicken into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
The Tangy Sauce: Zest, Sweetness, and a Hint of Spice
1. Citrus Burst: Use lemon juice and lime juice to replicate the tangy flavor of orange juice. Combine them in a bowl with zest from both fruits.
2. Sweet and Savory Balance: Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Soy sauce and rice vinegar provide savory depth.
3. Aromatic Spices: Ground ginger and garlic powder enhance the sauce with warmth and complexity.
The Finishing Touches: A Symphony of Flavors
1. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is fried, toss it in the prepared sauce.
2. Garnish for Perfection: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra burst of freshness and texture.
3. Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Pair your orange chicken with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations to Suit Your Taste
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Teriyaki Orange Chicken: Substitute honey with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor profile.
- Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon and lime juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken.
- Keep the sauce warm while frying the chicken.
- Serve the orange chicken immediately for maximum crispiness.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I use other citrus juices instead of lemon and lime?
A: Yes, you can use grapefruit juice or mandarin orange juice for a different citrus flavor.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce and cook until thickened.
Q: Can I bake the orange chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave before serving.
