Crispy Orange Chicken

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of Crispy Orange Chicken. It’s the kind of dish that instantly lifts your mood, evoking memories of bustling Chinese takeout restaurants and family gatherings filled with laughter. I remember the first time I tried this dish; I was mesmerized by the perfect combination of crunchy, golden chicken coated in a luscious orange sauce that dances on your taste buds. Every bite is a burst of flavor, blending the sweetness of orange with a zesty kick that keeps you coming back for more. As I experimented in my kitchen, tweaking the recipe to make it my own, I found joy in the process and a deep appreciation for how simple ingredients can create such magic. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.

When it comes to the reasons I absolutely adore this recipe, the list is long. In fact, there are several aspects that truly make the Crispy Orange Chicken stand out from other dishes. First, the crunch factor is off the charts. The chicken is double coated with a mix of cornstarch and flour, ensuring every bite is satisfyingly crispy. Second, the flavor profile is unparalleled. The balance between sweet and savory, with the brightness from the orange juice and the depth from the soy sauce, creates an unforgettable taste. Third, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this delicious meal. Fourth, it’s a crowd-pleaser. I can’t tell you how many times friends and family have raved about this dish at dinner parties. Fifth, the versatility is fantastic. You can serve it over rice, toss it in a salad, or even enjoy it as a standalone dish. Finally, the satisfaction of making something that rivals your favorite takeout is beyond rewarding. Trust me, once you make Crispy Orange Chicken, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!

Main Ingredients for Crispy Orange Chicken

When it comes to creating the perfect Crispy Orange Chicken, each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The star of the show, of course, is the chicken, which becomes tender and juicy when fried. The mixture of cornstarch and flour ensures an extra crispy coating, while ingredients like orange juice and soy sauce infuse a burst of flavor that elevates this dish to new heights. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that makes every bite of this dish incredible.

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken breasts cut into 1-inch chunks: The main protein that is tender and juicy when cooked properly. Use high-quality chicken for the best results.
• 1 cup cornstarch: This is key for achieving that sought-after crispy texture. It creates a light coating that fries up beautifully.
• 1/4 cup flour: Combined with cornstarch, flour adds structure to the coating, making it extra crunchy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: A crucial seasoning that enhances the flavor of the chicken and the overall dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild spice that balances out the sweetness of the sauce.
• 2 eggs beaten: Used to coat the chicken, helping the dry ingredients stick and adding richness.
• Canola oil for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, perfect for frying that crispy chicken.
• 1 cup orange juice: This is the star of the sauce, providing sweetness and acidity that make the dish shine.
• 1/4 cup white sugar: Sweetens the sauce to balance out the tanginess of the orange juice.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Provides acidity to brighten the dish, balancing the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: A savory element that adds umami and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced: Adds a fragrant heat that complements the orange flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic minced: A classic flavor that rounds out the sauce with its aroma and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat that elevates the dish.
• 1 orange zested: The zest adds a bright, aromatic flavor that enhances the orange profile of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Green onions chopped: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor.
• Orange zest: For an extra pop of color and flavor when serving.

Recipe Steps for Crispy Orange Chicken

Making Crispy Orange Chicken is an enjoyable journey! Once you gather all your ingredients, you’ll find the steps flow smoothly. Each stage builds excitement as you watch the chicken transform, first getting crispy in the hot oil and then enveloped in the delightful orange sauce. Don’t worry if things seem a bit chaotic; just remember to have fun and enjoy the cooking process!

1. In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This mixture will be the foundation of the crispy coating. Make sure it’s well combined to ensure even coverage on the chicken.
2. In another bowl, beat 2 eggs until frothy. This will create a rich coating that helps the dry mixture adhere to the chicken. Set this bowl aside for later use.
3. Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches between 325°F and 350°F. You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the dry mixture in; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s ready for frying.
4. While the oil is heating, take your chicken pieces and dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well-coated. The egg mixture adds moisture and richness, which is essential for the subsequent coating.
5. Now, take the egg-coated chicken chunks and add them to the cornstarch mixture. Toss until each piece is well-coated, ensuring a thick layer of the crispy mixture envelops the chicken. It’s best to work in batches to prevent overcrowding.
6. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 5 to 7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the temperature, adjusting as necessary to maintain that perfect frying heat.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step is crucial for keeping the chicken crispy.
8. Next, wipe the pan clean using a paper towel to remove any leftover oil and crumbs. Then, add 1 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced, 2 cloves garlic minced, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir and heat over medium heat for about 3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to combine and the sugars to dissolve.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a paste, known as a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce once added.
10. Add the cornstarch slurry to the orange sauce and whisk thoroughly. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes or until the sauce begins to thicken, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
11. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the flame to low and stir in the reserved orange zest. This adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the sauce.
12. Add the crispy chicken back into the pan and toss it with the orange sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. You can reserve some sauce for drizzling over rice or serving on the side.
13. Serve the Crispy Orange Chicken over white rice, garnishing with green onions and additional orange zest for a pop of color and flavor.

Expert Tips about Crispy Orange Chicken

Creating the perfect Crispy Orange Chicken takes practice, and I’m here to share some tips that will elevate your cooking game. Even if you’ve made this dish before, there are always ways to enhance your results and make it truly memorable!

• Storage: Leftover Crispy Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes to restore the crispiness.
• Freezing: If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider freezing the cooked chicken without the sauce. Once ready to serve, prepare the sauce fresh and toss it with the reheated chicken.
• Pairing: Crispy Orange Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli, fried rice, or a fresh salad. The bright flavors of the dish complement a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal.
• Adjusting Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you like it spicy, consider adding more to the sauce!
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, particularly for the ginger and orange zest, will enhance the flavor of the sauce and elevate the overall dish.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavors in the sauce. Adding a splash of pineapple juice or a dash of sesame oil can give your Crispy Orange Chicken a unique twist!

Accompaniments for Crispy Orange Chicken

When it comes to serving Crispy Orange Chicken, the options are endless! This dish shines as a centerpiece for any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Below are some delightful accompaniments that can enhance your dining experience:

• Steamed Rice: Serve your Crispy Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice helps soak up the delicious orange sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
• Fried Rice: For a flavorful twist, consider serving it with fried rice. The combination of flavors will elevate your meal and add a delightful texture contrast.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Pairing the chicken with a stir-fried vegetable medley adds color and nutrition to your plate. Think bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed lightly can complement the dish beautifully.
• Simple Salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the chicken. Adding citrus segments can echo the flavors of the dish.
• Spring Rolls: For an appetizer or side, crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp make a fabulous pairing with your Crispy Orange Chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to potlucks and celebrations. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress guests.
• Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be enjoyed cold in a salad or reheated in the oven for another satisfying meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The magic of Crispy Orange Chicken lies in its perfect blend of crispy texture and vibrant flavors. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a taste of restaurant dining right into your home. I encourage you to try making this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Crispy Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy Orange Chicken is the perfect blend of crunchy, sweet, and savory. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy cravings and impress your family and friends. Make it tonight for a delightful treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken breasts cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 eggs beaten eggs
• Canola oil for frying
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 orange zested orange
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Green onions chopped
• Orange zest

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
2. In another bowl, beat 2 eggs until frothy. Set this bowl aside for later use.
3. Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches between 325°F and 350°F.
4. While the oil is heating, take your chicken pieces and dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well-coated.
5. Now, take the egg-coated chicken chunks and add them to the cornstarch mixture. Toss until each piece is well-coated.
6. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Next, wipe the pan clean and add 1 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced, 2 cloves garlic minced, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir and heat over medium heat for about 3 minutes.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a paste. This will help thicken the sauce.
10. Add the cornstarch slurry to the orange sauce and whisk thoroughly. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
11. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the flame to low and stir in the reserved orange zest.
12. Add the crispy chicken back into the pan and toss it with the orange sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.
13. Serve the Crispy Orange Chicken over white rice, garnishing with green onions and additional orange zest.

Notes

• Tip 1: Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches so they are nice and crispy.
• Tip 2: Toss the chicken pieces in a freezer bag several at a time if making a large batch.
• Tip 3: Ensure the oil is between 350°F and 375°F before adding the chicken pieces.
• Tip 4: Prepare everything ahead of time, as cooking moves quickly.
• Tip 5: Be careful not to include any white pith when zesting your oranges.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.