Learn How To Make Restaurant-quality Orange Chicken From Scratch – Step-by-step Guide!
What To Know
- Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with fresh orange slices or scallions.
- Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- With a few simple steps and a touch of culinary magic, you can now create restaurant-quality orange chicken from scratch.
Craving the tantalizing flavors of restaurant-style orange chicken? With this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the secrets to making this iconic dish from scratch in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow our step-by-step instructions and tips to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you licking your lips.
Ingredients: Gathering the Essential Elements
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Step 1: Seasoning and Coating the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to evenly coat.
Step 2: Frying the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Creating the Orange Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and orange zest. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
Step 4: Glazing the Chicken
Add the fried chicken pieces to the orange sauce and stir to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with fresh orange slices or scallions.
Tips for Crispy Chicken
- Use cornstarch instead of flour for a crispier coating.
- Make sure the vegetable oil is hot enough before frying the chicken.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet or wok when frying.
- Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcooking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of chili flakes or Sriracha to the orange sauce.
- Gluten-Free Orange Chicken: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Vegetarian Orange Chicken: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve orange chicken with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
Healthier Options
- Use lean chicken breasts instead of thighs.
- Reduce the amount of oil used for frying.
- Steam the chicken instead of frying it.
FAQ
- Why is my orange chicken not crispy? Make sure the oil is hot enough and do not overcrowd the skillet.
- Can I make orange chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can fry the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Simply reheat the chicken in the sauce before serving.
- How do I store orange chicken? Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph
With a few simple steps and a touch of culinary magic, you can now create restaurant-quality orange chicken from scratch. This dish is a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on this culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!