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Orange Chicken Recipe

This Orange Chicken recipe brings a delightful dish with a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and savory flavors. Coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a homemade orange sauce, it’s sure to be a family favorite!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 People
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 frying pan or wok
  • 1 cooking thermometer
  • 1 slotted spoon
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 baking sheet with parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • about 2 cups oil for frying
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 zest orange
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 green onions chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, water, egg, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to form a batter.
  • Heat oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
  • Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then carefully place in the hot oil. Fry in batches for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • In another bowl, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  • In the same pan, discard excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the orange sauce mixture and bring to a simmer over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Notes

For added texture, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice.