Never Eat Cold Orange Chicken Again! Here’s The Easiest Way To Heat It Up

Orange chicken, a beloved Chinese-American dish, is a symphony of sweet, tangy, and crispy flavors. However, the joy of indulging in orange chicken can extend beyond the initial meal if you master the art of reheating it. This guide will provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to heat up orange chicken effectively, ensuring that it retains its delectable taste and texture.

Methods of Reheating Orange Chicken

1. Oven

• Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place chicken: Spread the orange chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Reheat: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and slightly crispy.

2. Stovetop

• Heat oil: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add chicken: Add the orange chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Heat through: Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly heated.

3. Microwave

• Use a microwave-safe container: Place the orange chicken in a microwave-safe container with a lid.
• Add moisture: Add a splash of water or orange juice to the container to prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Reheat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

4. Air Fryer

• Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place chicken: Place the orange chicken pieces in the air fryer basket.
• Reheat: Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and crispy.

Tips for Reheating Orange Chicken

• Avoid overcooking: Reheat the chicken until it is just heated through. Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough.
• Use low heat: When reheating on the stovetop, use low heat to prevent burning.
• Add moisture: If the chicken is starting to dry out, add a splash of water or orange juice to the pan or microwave container.
• Reheat in batches: If you have a large amount of orange chicken to reheat, do so in batches to ensure even heating.
• Serve immediately: Once reheated, serve the orange chicken immediately to enjoy it at its best.

How to Reheat Orange Chicken Sauce

If you have leftover orange chicken sauce, you can reheat it separately to serve with the reheated chicken.

• Stovetop: Heat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Place the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Reheating Orange Chicken

• Chicken is dry: If the chicken is dry, add a splash of water or orange juice to the pan or microwave container and reheat for a few more minutes.
• Chicken is tough: If the chicken is tough, it may have been overcooked. Reheat for a shorter period of time next time.
• Sauce is too thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of water or orange juice and stir until desired consistency is reached.

In a nutshell: Reheat Like a Pro

Mastering the art of reheating orange chicken is essential for savoring this delicious dish beyond the first bite. By following the methods and tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your reheated orange chicken retains its vibrant flavors and crispy texture, providing you with a satisfying meal that rivals the original.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I reheat orange chicken from frozen?

Yes, you can reheat orange chicken from frozen. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator or microwave before reheating using one of the methods described above.

2. How long does reheated orange chicken last?

Reheated orange chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I reheat orange chicken more than once?

It is not recommended to reheat orange chicken more than once as it can compromise the texture and flavor of the dish.