No more last-minute stress: can you make orange chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Craving the tangy and crispy goodness of orange chicken but short on time? Wondering “can you make orange chicken ahead of time”? The answer is a resounding yes! With a few simple steps, you can enjoy this beloved dish even on the busiest of nights.

The Secret to Make-Ahead Orange Chicken

The key to successful make-ahead orange chicken lies in separating the components and storing them separately. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy or the sauce from thickening prematurely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Orange Chicken Ahead of Time

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
• Heat oil in a large skillet and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
• Drain the chicken on paper towels and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
• Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring constantly.
• Reduce heat and simmer until thickened.

3. Assemble the Orange Chicken:

• Once the sauce has cooled slightly, transfer the chicken to the saucepan and toss to coat.
• Divide the orange chicken between airtight containers.

4. Store the Components:

• Store the chicken in one container and the sauce in a separate container.
• Refrigerate the chicken for up to 3 days and the sauce for up to 5 days.

Reheating the Orange Chicken

1. Reheat the Sauce:

• Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat over medium heat until warmed through.

2. Reheat the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Combine and Serve:

• Pour the warmed sauce over the chicken and stir to combine.
• Serve the orange chicken immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Make-Ahead Orange Chicken

• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth.
• If the chicken is too dry, add a splash of orange juice or soy sauce to the sauce.
• Serve the orange chicken over rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Benefits of Making Orange Chicken Ahead of Time

• Saves time: Prepare the meal in advance and enjoy it later without the hassle of cooking.
• Stress-free weeknights: Have a delicious meal ready to go when you’re short on time or energy.
• Meal prep made easy: Cook a large batch of orange chicken and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Budget-friendly: Make-ahead meals help reduce food waste and save money on takeout.

Variations on Orange Chicken

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving for a nutty flavor.
• Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free Orange Chicken: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to make the dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Making orange chicken ahead of time is not only possible but also incredibly convenient. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish whenever you crave it, without sacrificing taste or quality. So next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, consider preparing your orange chicken ahead of time.

FAQ

1. How long can I store the make-ahead orange chicken?

• The chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and the sauce for up to 5 days.

2. Can I freeze the orange chicken?

• Yes, you can freeze the orange chicken for up to 2 months. Defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What sides go well with orange chicken?

• Rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and spring rolls are all excellent accompaniments to orange chicken.