Craving something delicious that beats takeout? You’re in the right place! In this blog, I’ll show you how to make Better Than Takeout Orange Chicken that’s simple and tasty. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this fun recipe that’s packed with flavor! Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Orange Chicken
– 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, diced
I prefer chicken thighs for their juicy texture. They hold up well and stay moist during cooking.
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
Cornstarch gives the chicken a nice, crispy coating. It helps achieve that takeout texture.
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Mixing flour with cornstarch adds a bit of structure. It helps the coating stick to the chicken.
– 1 teaspoon salt
Salt brings out the flavor. It balances the dish and enhances the spices.
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle heat. It pairs well with the other seasonings.
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder gives depth to the flavor. It adds a savory note without being overpowering.
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
Ginger powder adds warmth and a hint of spice. It complements the orange sauce nicely.
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Use vegetable oil for frying. It has a high smoke point and works well for crispy chicken.
Ingredients for the Orange Sauce
– 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
Fresh juice brightens the sauce. It gives a sweet and tangy flavor that is key to the dish.
– Zest of 1 orange
The zest adds intense orange flavor. It enhances the aroma and taste of the sauce.
– 1/4 cup honey
Honey adds sweetness and helps to balance the tartness. It gives a rich flavor to the sauce.
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
Soy sauce brings umami to the dish. Use low sodium to keep the flavors balanced.
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Rice vinegar adds a light tang. It brightens the sauce and enhances the fresh flavors.
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Minced garlic adds a fresh and sharp taste. It boosts the overall flavor of the sauce.
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
Fresh ginger gives a spicy kick. It works well with the orange and honey.
– 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust for spice preference)
Chili flakes add heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice level.
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
This mixture thickens the sauce. It gives the sauce a nice, syrupy texture that clings to the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
To start, I mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ginger powder in a large bowl. This mix will coat the chicken and give it a nice crunch. Next, I dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken in the flour mix until each piece is coated well. Be sure to shake off any extra flour.
Now, it’s time to fry. I heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the chicken in a single layer. Fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. It’s ready when it turns golden brown and is cooked through. If needed, I cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Making the Orange Sauce
While the chicken fries, I prepare the orange sauce. In a saucepan, I combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes. I bring this mix to a simmer over medium heat. The aroma fills the kitchen!
Once it simmers, I stir in the cornstarch slurry. This slurry helps thicken the sauce. I cook it for another 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens nicely. After that, I remove the saucepan from the heat.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
When the chicken is done frying, I drain it on paper towels to remove extra oil. Then, I transfer the chicken into a large mixing bowl. I pour the orange sauce over the chicken and toss it gently. I want to make sure every piece is evenly coated in that sweet and tangy sauce.
For serving, I like to place the chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. To make it look nice, I garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Adding some orange wedges on the side gives it a pop of color!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken
To get crispy chicken, start with the right coating. Mix cornstarch and flour. This blend creates a nice crunch. Make sure you coat the chicken well. Shake off any extra flour mix. This step helps keep the chicken from getting soggy.
When frying, use hot oil. Heat vegetable oil on medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer. Fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. If your pan is too crowded, work in batches. This keeps the oil hot and crispy.
Enhancing the Orange Sauce
To tweak the orange sauce, you can adjust the flavors. Add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness. If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch mixed with water.
For spice, add red chili flakes. Start with a little, then taste. You can always add more if you like heat. Mix the sauce well before using, so all the flavors blend. This makes the dish more tasty and fun!
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in this dish easily.
– Using chicken breast vs. thighs: Chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture. They stay juicy when cooked. Chicken breast is leaner and can be used if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook it.
– Vegetarian or vegan substitutions: Try tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. Press the tofu to remove water and cut it into cubes. Coat it just as you would with chicken. Cook it until golden brown for a tasty crunch.
Flavor Variations
Don’t be afraid to mix things up with flavors!
– Citrus alternatives: If you want a twist, use lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice. Each will give your dish a bright taste that’s refreshing.
– Additional ingredients for a twist: Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. You can also mix in some pineapple for a fruity touch. Try sesame oil for a nutty flavor or add a splash of sriracha for heat.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage Tips
To keep your orange chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature first. This keeps it safe and tasty for later. Consume the leftovers within three days for the best flavor.
When you reheat the chicken, use a microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir between each burst to warm it evenly. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or broth. This helps keep the chicken moist.
Freezing for Future Meals
If you want to save orange chicken for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
To thaw the chicken, move it to the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave’s defrost function. Once thawed, reheat using a skillet or microwave, just like with leftovers. Enjoy your meal anytime with these simple steps!
FAQs
Can I make Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Orange Chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This meal stays fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat the chicken and sauce in a pan. This method keeps the chicken tasty and warm.
What can I serve with Better Than Takeout Orange Chicken?
Better Than Takeout Orange Chicken pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some top choices:
– Steamed rice
– Fried rice
– Stir-fried vegetables
– Noodles
These sides will balance the sweet and tangy flavor of the chicken. Plus, they make your meal more filling and colorful.
Is this recipe suitable for meal planning?
Yes, this recipe works great for meal planning. Portion the chicken and sauce into containers. Keep the rice or noodles separate to prevent sogginess. Store these meals in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
In this guide, we explored how to make delicious orange chicken. You learned about essential ingredients like chicken thighs, flour, and fresh spices. The step-by-step instructions will help you fry chicken and create a flavorful sauce. We also shared tips for perfect texture and variations for different diets. Storing leftovers properly ensures tasty meals later. Overall, this recipe is easy to follow and fun to make. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty dish!
