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Easy Orange Chicken

Easy Orange Chicken

Craving something crispy and tangy? Try this Easy Orange Chicken recipe! Perfectly coated chicken pieces are fried to golden perfection and tossed in a sweet orange sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress your guests!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2-3 cups vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice about 2 medium oranges
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 zest of 1 orange
  • 2 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, adjust to taste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • sliced green onions optional, for garnish
  • sesame seeds optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Grater
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Whisk the egg in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and flour. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat evenly with the cornstarch-flour mixture. Let rest for 10 minutes for better adhesion.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350 degrees. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked inside. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. Make the Orange Sauce: While frying, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic and chili flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Stir the cornstarch slurry and slowly whisk it into the sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes until thick and glossy. Remove from the heat.
  5. Toss and Serve: Gently toss the fried chicken into the orange sauce until well coated. Serve immediately garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds over steamed rice or your family's favorite grain.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
  • Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of crushed red pepper.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients like oranges for the best flavor.