Unlock the gluten-free gateway to asian delicacies: how to make orange chicken allergy-friendly

Orange chicken, a beloved culinary delight, can be enjoyed by everyone, even those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to create a tantalizing gluten-free version of this classic dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup gluten-free flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup gluten-free soy sauce (tamari)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
3. Fry the Chicken: Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Orange Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the fried chicken to the saucepan and toss to coat in the orange sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh orange slices and green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have gluten-free soy sauce, you can substitute coconut aminos or liquid aminos.
• To make the sauce spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Serve the orange chicken over rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce to the orange sauce.
• Honey Orange Chicken: Increase the honey to 1/4 cup for a sweeter sauce.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish.

Accompaniments

• Fried Rice: Prepare a batch of gluten-free fried rice to serve alongside the orange chicken.
• Noodles: Cook your favorite gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles or soba noodles.
• Vegetables: Stir-fry a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, to add some color and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the orange chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Gluten-Free Orange Chicken: A Culinary Triumph

With this comprehensive guide, you can now effortlessly create a delectable gluten-free version of orange chicken that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a satisfying meal, this dish will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Q: What if I don’t have cornstarch?
A: You can substitute arrowroot powder or potato starch for cornstarch.

Q: How do I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
A: You can make the orange sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before combining with the chicken.