Orange chicken is a delicious and tangy dish that is loved by many. The combination of juicy chicken and the citrusy flavor of oranges is simply irresistible. If you are a fan of this mouthwatering dish and want to learn how to make it at home, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making orange chicken with orange juice, from the marination to the final presentation. So let’s get started!
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you begin to prepare the orange chicken, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. Here is a list of what you will require to make this scrumptious dish:
For the Chicken:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– All-purpose flour
– Cornstarch
– Salt and pepper
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Orange Sauce:
– Freshly squeezed orange juice
– Soy sauce
– White vinegar
– Honey
– Garlic (minced)
– Ginger (grated)
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Marinating the Chicken
To enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, marinating it is essential. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with some soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss the chicken to ensure that it is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight.
Preparing the Orange Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the tantalizing orange sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, white vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes (if you prefer a bit of heat). Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. This sauce will be the base for the orange chicken and is what gives it its tangy flavor.
Frying the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook it. In a deep pan or wok, heat some vegetable oil over medium-high heat. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Take each piece of marinated chicken and coat it in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour before placing the chicken gently into the hot oil. Fry the chicken in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the cooked chicken from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Mixing the Chicken and Sauce
Now that the chicken is cooked, it’s time to combine it with the flavorful orange sauce. In a clean pan, heat a small amount of oil and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for a minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour the orange sauce into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the fried chicken pieces to the pan. Toss the chicken in the sauce until each piece is coated evenly.
Serving and Garnishing the Orange Chicken
Congratulations! Your homemade orange chicken is now ready to be devoured. Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish and garnish it with some orange slices or zest for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a delightful touch. Serve the orange chicken alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Making orange chicken with orange juice at home is easier than you might think. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this popular dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of tangy orange sauce and crispy chicken will surely satisfy your cravings. So why wait? Gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a tasty and tangy orange chicken meal.