Crispy Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic takeout favorite, delivering a burst of citrus flavor paired with the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken. This dish is not only mouthwatering but also surprisingly easy to prepare at home, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family.
why make this recipe
Creating Crispy Orange Chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and fresher meal compared to many takeout options. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this recipe is both budget-friendly and versatile. You can customize the sweetness and spice level to suit your own taste preferences, and it’s an excellent way to impress guests without extensive culinary skills. Plus, there’s something so rewarding about serving a homemade dish that everyone will rave about!
how to make Crispy Orange Chicken
Making Crispy Orange Chicken involves a few simple steps, and the end result is a dish that feels indulgent without leaving you feeling guilty. You’ll start by preparing your chicken, whisking eggs, and setting up a breading station. The frying process is quick, ensuring that your chicken maintains its moisture while achieving that coveted crunch. The orange sauce comes together in minutes and perfectly complements the crispy chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Follow along to learn more!
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Ingredients :
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
Directions :
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Set up a breading station with flour mixed with a pinch of salt in one bowl and beaten eggs in another.
- Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with flour.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
- Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side).
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger powder; simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Toss fried chicken with the orange sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Pro Tips for Success Crispy Orange Chicken
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Ensure the oil is hot enough: Before you start frying, make sure the oil is hot enough to avoid greasy chicken. You can test this by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and immediately float to the surface.
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Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve that perfect crisp. Overcrowding can lower the temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
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Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken pieces rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This helps to maintain their crispiness before serving.
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Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the sugar in the orange sauce. Start small and taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add some heat to your orange sauce by mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Flavor Variations Crispy Orange Chicken
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Add heat: Incorporate sriracha or another hot sauce into the orange sauce for a kick of spice. Simply whisk it in with the other sauce ingredients.
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Sesame flavor: Add a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the orange.
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Coconut twist: Use coconut milk in place of some of the orange juice to create a creamy and tropical flavor while still keeping the essence of orangey goodness.
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Chili garlic sauce: Swap out the minced garlic for chili garlic sauce, giving the dish an additional layer of savory flavor while retaining that spicy balance.
Serving Suggestions Crispy Orange Chicken
Crispy Orange Chicken pairs beautifully with both rice and noodles. Serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, complimented by a sprinkle of scallions and some sesame seeds for visual flair. Alternatively, toss it with noodles, adding some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Fresh cilantro or parsley can also enhance the presentation while adding a fresh herbaceous note.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a side of steamed broccoli or a refreshing cucumber salad. The crunch of the vegetables will contrast nicely with the tender chicken, making every bite delightful!
Storage and Freezing Instructions Crispy Orange Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the oven to maintain crispiness, providing a few minutes at 350°F.
If you have extra prepared orange chicken that you’d like to freeze, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for the best crispiness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|—————|——–|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
FAQ About Crispy Orange Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be an excellent alternative! They are often more tender and juicy compared to chicken breasts. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute it with tamari.
What can I serve with Crispy Orange Chicken?
Crispy Orange Chicken goes well with a range of sides. Steamed rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles are traditional choices. You can also serve it with a simple side salad or vegetable stir-fry for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, simply decrease the amount of sugar in the sauce. You can also balance it with additional soy sauce or a splash of vinegar to cut through the sweetness.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just heat it up before tossing it with your crispy chicken.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice?
Using fresh orange juice will give the sauce a bright and vibrant flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. If using bottled juice, try to choose one without added sugars or preservatives for the best results.
H2: Final Thoughts
Crispy Orange Chicken is a fantastic dish that not only captivates the palate but also brings a sense of satisfaction when preparing at home. With its combination of crunchy chicken and a zesty orange sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with flavors, this recipe is versatile enough to suit anyone’s tastes. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—your kitchen will be buzzing with delightful aromas, and your family will love every bite!
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Crispy Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delightful twist on the classic takeout favorite, delivering a burst of citrus flavor paired with perfectly fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Set up a breading station with flour mixed with a pinch of salt in one bowl and beaten eggs in another.
- Dip each chicken piece in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with flour.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
- Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side).
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger powder; simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Toss fried chicken with the orange sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Notes
Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying to achieve perfect crispiness. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to personal taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 270mg
