Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Why buy orange chicken takeout when you can make it at home in less than 30 minutes? This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe features a delicious homemade sauce that elevates your dining experience without the hassle. Perfect for weeknight meals, gatherings, or simply when you’re craving that sweet and tangy flavor, this dish impresses with its simplicity and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade sauce combines fresh orange juice and soy sauce for a vibrant taste that beats takeout.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even as a filling in wraps; this dish adapts to your meal preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to make and incredibly tasty, this recipe is sure to delight family and friends alike.
• Healthier Option: By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients and reduce sodium compared to restaurant options.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smoother. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking experience is enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Deep frying pan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking while cooking the sauce, making cleanup easier.
• Deep frying pan: Ideal for frying chicken evenly without the risk of splattering oil.
• Whisk: Ensures that all sauce ingredients are blended smoothly for a consistent flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 whole boneless chicken thighs (or 2 lbs. of chicken tenderloins)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. corn starch
• 1 tsp. black pepper (or less to taste, fresh ground)
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• ½ tsp. ginger powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. paprika (to add color to the chicken)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice
• 1½ tbsp. corn starch
• 2 tbsps. vegetable oil
• 3 tbsps. low sodium soy sauce
• 1½ tbsp. rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 2 tbsps. brown sugar
• ½ tbsp. grated ginger
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp. black pepper (fresh ground)
• 1 tsp. orange zest
• Chili flakes (optional to add heat)

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken into ½ inch cube pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
2. Add in the flour, corn starch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and ginger powder to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown for about 2–3 minutes.
3. Avoid overcooking as this may lead to chewy chicken.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until well combined.
2. Transfer this mixture into a hot non-stick skillet or frying pan and cook over low heat.
3. Simmer until the sauce thickens up.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the chicken is fried, transfer it into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Mix well to coat all pieces thoroughly.
3. Allow both to simmer together for an additional 1–2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Plate your Easy Orange Chicken alongside homemade Lo Mein Noodles or white rice.
2. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it correctly enhances the flavors and overall experience of the meal.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the orange sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Adds extra flavor and texture, perfect for a more filling meal.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein Noodles: These soft noodles complement the chicken’s crunch and provide a hearty base.
• Rice Noodles: A gluten-free option that soaks up the sauce well.

Garnished Options

• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions: Freshness from green onions balances out the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Easy Orange Chicken Recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and quality orange juice will enhance flavor.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to get an even golden color on each piece.
• Simmer Sauce Properly: Allow sauce to thicken adequately before mixing in chicken for better coating.
• Adjust Sweetness Levels: Taste your sauce as you prepare it; adjust brown sugar to your liking.
• Add Heat if Desired: Include chili flakes for those who prefer a spicy kick in their dish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Pairing your Easy Orange Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the dish.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas adds nutrition and flavor.
3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls bring an additional texture that complements the chicken well.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad can help balance out the richness of the chicken.
5. Fried Rice Balls: Tasty bites that echo the flavors of fried rice in a fun shape.
6. Miso Soup: A light soup that cleanses the palate while keeping with Asian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common errors can elevate your Easy Orange Chicken Recipe to perfection. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough and chewy. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
• Skipping the marinade: Failing to let the chicken sit in the seasoning can lead to bland flavor. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not monitoring oil temperature: Using oil that is too hot can burn the chicken, while too cool oil may make it soggy. Use medium-high heat for frying.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If the sauce isn’t thickened properly, it won’t cling to the chicken. Simmer until it reaches a nice coating consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping out on garnishes like sesame seeds or green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Add these for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe so special?

This recipe is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy homemade orange chicken in under 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! While chicken thighs are recommended, you can also use chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Easy Orange Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well.

Is this recipe healthy?

With fresh ingredients and low-sodium soy sauce, this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is a healthier alternative to takeout options.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them right before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe is not only quick but also incredibly delicious, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. With its versatility, you can customize flavors and ingredients based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone!