Chinese-American Orange Chicken Recipe

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Chinese-American Orange Chicken Recipe
Prep
10 min
Cook
20 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a large bowl, beat the egg white until it becomes broken down and lightly foamy.

  2. Add soy sauce, wine, and vodka to the bowl and whisk them together. Set aside half of the marinade in a separate small bowl.

  3. To the large bowl, add baking soda and cornstarch. Whisk them together until well combined.

  4. Add the chicken to the large bowl and use your fingers to turn it, ensuring that it is thoroughly coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it aside.

  5. In another large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until the mixture becomes homogenous.

  6. Add the reserved marinade to the bowl and whisk until the mixture forms coarse, mealy clumps. Set aside.

  7. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, wine, vinegar, chicken stock, sugar, sesame seed oil, orange zest and juice, and cornstarch. Stir them together with a fork until the cornstarch is dissolved and no lumps remain. Add dried orange peel and set aside.

  8. In a large skillet, combine oil, garlic, ginger, and minced scallions. Place the skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring, until the vegetables become aromatic and soft, but not browned (around 3 minutes).

  9. Stir the sauce mixture and add it to the skillet, making

About this recipe

Introduction

Are you craving a delicious and flavorful Chinese-American dish? Look no further than orange chicken! This popular dish combines the tanginess of oranges with crispy chicken, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we will explore the origins of orange chicken, its key ingredients, and how to make this dish at home. So, put on your apron and let's get cooking!

The Origins of Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a beloved dish that originated in the United States in the 1980s. It is a fusion of traditional Chinese flavors and American cooking techniques. The dish typically consists of battered and deep-fried chicken chunks coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Its popularity quickly spread across the country, and it has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.

Key Ingredients

To make the perfect orange chicken, you will need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat. This will provide the base for the dish. Additionally, you will need cornstarch or flour to coat the chicken, giving it a crispy texture. For the orange sauce, you will need fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and ginger. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and zesty sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.

How to Make Orange Chicken at Home

Making orange chicken at home is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and pat them dry with a paper towel. Coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch or flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 2Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken pieces into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 3Prepare the Orange Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Gently toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the sauce. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.

Step 5Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the orange chicken to a serving plate and garnish with some sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Serve it alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken and tangy orange sauce!

Conclusion

Orange chicken is a delightful Chinese-American dish that combines the best of both worlds. Its crispy texture and zesty orange sauce make it a crowd-pleaser. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily recreate this delicious dish at home. So, why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills?

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe and can add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A2: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite meat substitute, and follow the same steps to make the orange sauce.

Q3: Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?

A3: While orange chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce, then combine them before serving.

Q4: Can I freeze leftover orange chicken?

A4: Yes, you can freeze leftover orange chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan or microwave.

Q5: Can I adjust the sweetness of the orange sauce?

A5: Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar or honey. Conversely, if you prefer a tangier sauce, reduce the amount of sugar or add a splash of vinegar.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the dish?

A6: Yes, you can add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Simply stir-fry them before adding the chicken to the pan.

Q7: Is orange chicken spicy?

A7: Orange chicken is typically not spicy. However, if you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Q8: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

A8: While fresh orange juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled orange juice in a pinch. Just make sure it is 100% pure orange juice without any added sugars or flavors.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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