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Chinese Orange Chicken

Welcome to your new favorite way to make Chinese Orange Chicken. This authentic chicken dish is savory, rich, and deeply satisfying, bringing restaurant-quality results right into your home kitchen in just 45 minutes.

By Mactode Team 45 mins 350 kcal
Chinese Orange Chicken

The Secret to Perfect Chinese Orange Chicken

There is a reason why Chinese Orange Chicken is such a beloved classic. Unlike quick shortcuts that sacrifice flavor, this method ensures that every single bite is packed with the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The foundation of this incredible dish lies in utilizing Zest of 1 Orange, which elevates the entire flavor profile.

Whether you are cooking for a special weekend dinner or need a reliable crowd-pleaser for the family, this recipe delivers consistently amazing results. We've spent countless hours perfecting this exact ratio of ingredients so that you don't have to guess.

Why You'll Fall in Love With This Recipe

  • Incredible Flavor: The combination of Orange Juice and Zest of 1 Orange creates a harmony you won't forget.
  • Time-Tested Technique: By following our step-by-step cooking method, you avoid common pitfalls.
  • Quick Prep: You'll only need 15 minutes of active preparation time!

Ingredient Deep Dive

To achieve the absolute best results, let's talk about what goes into this masterpiece. The quality of what you put in directly determines what you get out.

  • Zest of 1 orange: This adds essential moisture and depth. Always try to use the freshest available.
  • Orange juice: This provides the perfect foundational flavor. Always try to use the freshest available.
  • Soy sauce: This gives it that signature authentic taste. Always try to use the freshest available.
  • Water: This balances out the richer elements. Always try to use the freshest available.

Step-by-Step Cooking Walkthrough

Making Chinese Orange Chicken is easier than you might think when broken down into manageable steps. Let's walk through the critical phases of the cooking process:

Step 1: The Preparation. Make the orange sauce:

Step 2: Building the Flavor. Whisk together sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: The Finishing Touch. LEFTOVERS! The orange chicken keeps well in the fridge for 5 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water over low heat. Freeze the orange chicken for up to 3 months, but be sure to thaw it before reheating so the chicken doesn’t clump together.

What to Serve with Chinese Orange Chicken

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that harmonize with the vibrant flavors of this feast.

  • Steamed Rice or Grains: Serves as a fluffy base, soaking up the delicious juices and complementing the dish beautifully.
  • Crunchy Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, balancing the savory notes.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture offer a delicious contrast, rounding out the meal.

Chinese Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and make it your own!

  • Veggie Swap: Use different seasonal vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini. This adds color and crunch!
  • Heat it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Embrace the warmth!
  • Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving to elevate the dish.

Expert Tips for Chinese Orange Chicken

  • Prepare Ahead: Measure out all your ingredients before you start cooking. This "mise en place" makes the process seamless.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: If cooking in a pan, give ingredients space. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
  • Taste as You Go: Always check for seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can make a huge difference.

Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How should I store leftovers from my Chinese Orange Chicken?
To keep your dish fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Chinese Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute ingredients to fit your dietary needs, such as using gluten-free alternatives or plant-based proteins. Always feel free to adjust based on personal preferences or allergies while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Keep beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven rather than the microwave.

Chinese Orange Chicken

Learn how to make authentic Chinese Orange Chicken at home. A delicious and satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Total Time45 mins

Ingredients

  • Zest of 1 Orange
  • 1/4 cup Orange Juice
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1/3 cup Rice Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seed Oil
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 650g Chicken Thighs
  • 2 large Egg
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup All purpose flour
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil
  • 2 cloves chopped Garlic
  • 1 chopped Shallots
  • Sliced Scallions
  • Garnish Sesame Seed
  • To serve Rice

Instructions

1
Make the orange sauce:
2
Whisk together sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3
Prep the chicken:
4
Cut chicken into about 1-inch cubes. Whisk eggs with salt and black pepper in a bowl and add chicken. Stir together.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. Remove chicken from eggs with a slotted spoon or tongs, letting excess egg drain off, then transfer to cornstarch mixture and coat well.
6
Fry the chicken:
7
Add oil to a large 10- to 12-inch skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also test the temperature by sprinkling in some flour. If the oil is hot enough, it should fizzle immediately.
8
Once oil is hot, fry the chicken in two batches. The oil might not completely cover the chicken—that’s okay. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 3 to 4 more minutes. Total cook time is about 6 to 8 minutes.
9
Remove fried chicken cubes and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels, so the chicken can drain. Repeat until all the chicken is cooked.
10
Simmer the chicken in the sauce:
11
Once chicken is done, pour out hot oil and wipe pan clean. Add a fresh tablespoon of oil along with chopped garlic and shallot. Cook for a minute and then add the sauce. Simmer the sauce until it starts to thicken.
12
Once the sauce is lightly bubbling, add fried chicken and toss together to coat. The sauce should continue to thicken and stick to the chicken. Let simmer for a minute or two more. Serve orange chicken over cooked white rice, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh scallions.
13
Did you love this recipe? Let us know with a rating and review!
14
LEFTOVERS! The orange chicken keeps well in the fridge for 5 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water over low heat. Freeze the orange chicken for up to 3 months, but be sure to thaw it before reheating so the chicken doesn’t clump together.
Author

Hi, I'm Sarah!

Welcome to Mactode! I love sharing easy, family-friendly recipes that anyone can make.