Simple & Delicious Quick & Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Quick & Easy Orange Chicken. It brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in, all while being an effortless dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. The crispy chicken, paired with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress friends at your next gathering, this recipe has you covered.
Not only is this orange chicken delightful on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with rice or noodles. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from busy weeknights to festive get-togethers. With its bright flavors and satisfying crunch, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– A quick dinner solution: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
– Family-friendly flavors: The sweet and savory taste is a hit with kids and adults alike.
– Better than takeout: Enjoy the restaurant-quality taste from the comfort of your home.
– Simple ingredients: Most items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local market.
– Customizable options: Make it spicy or keep it mild—tailor it to your family’s preferences!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Quick & Easy Orange Chicken, gather the following ingredients. You’ll love how simple they are!
For the Chicken
– 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup cornstarch (or potato starch)
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
For the Sauce
– 1 cup orange juice (freshly-squeezed, pulp removed)
– 2 tbsp white vinegar (or rice vinegar / apple cider vinegar)
– 6 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp regular soy sauce (or light soy sauce)
– 2 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1/4 tsp ginger powder (or grated ginger)
– 1 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch / tapioca starch)
– 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Optional Garnishes
– 1/2 green onion (finely chopped)
– 1 tbsp orange zest (grated)
– 1 tsp sesame seeds (toasted)
Variations
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:
– Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
– Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers or broccoli during the cooking process for added nutrition.
– Change the citrus: Experiment with lemon or lime juice for a different flavor profile.
– Make it spicy: Increase the red chili flakes or add some sriracha to kick up the heat.
How to Make Quick & Easy Orange Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all of the sauce ingredients as listed above. Mixing them well ensures that each flavor blends beautifully together, creating that irresistible sweet and tangy sauce that makes this dish so special.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Dice the chicken thighs into approximately 1.5-inch cubes. It’s important not to pat them dry before coating them in cornstarch because a little moisture helps create that wonderful crispy texture when frying.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Transfer your diced chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl and add cornstarch. Toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated. This coating will help achieve that delightful crunch when fried.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in small batches in a single layer until golden brown and crispy on both sides—this should take around 6 to 8 minutes. Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than frying.
Step 5: Drain Excess Oil
Once cooked, remove the fried chicken from the pan and transfer it onto a wire rack or place it on paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This step is crucial as it keeps your chicken crispy instead of soggy.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In the same pan on medium-high heat, pour in your prepared sauce and allow it to simmer for about one minute until it thickens slightly. This step intensifies the flavors and creates that luscious glaze.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once thickened, add your fried chicken back into the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until each piece of chicken is well-coated in that vibrant orange goodness.
Final Touches
Garnish with orange zest, toasted sesame seeds, and finely chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color. Now you’re ready to serve this delightful dish!
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Quick & Easy Orange Chicken—it’s bound to become a favorite at your table!
Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Orange Chicken
Creating the perfect Quick & Easy Orange Chicken can be a breeze with a few simple tips. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, these suggestions will help you achieve delicious results every time.
– Use fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor of the sauce, providing a vibrant sweetness that bottled juices can’t match.
– Don’t over-crowd the pan: Fry the chicken in small batches to ensure that each piece cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy texture without steaming.
– Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. A little less sugar can balance out the tanginess of the vinegar and orange juice.
– Experiment with spices: If you love heat, try adding more red chili flakes or even a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
– Let it rest: After frying, allow the chicken to drain on a wire rack rather than paper towels. This preserves its crispiness and prevents sogginess.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Orange Chicken
Serving Quick & Easy Orange Chicken is all about presentation and complements. This dish not only tastes amazing but looks delightful too, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Here are some ideas on how to present your meal beautifully.
Garnishes
– Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that enhances the dish visually.
– Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkling these on top brings a nutty flavor and an appealing texture.
– Orange zest: A light sprinkle of orange zest just before serving amplifies the citrus aroma and taste.
Side Dishes
– Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, making for a satisfying meal.
– Stir-fried vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add nutrition and balance to your plate.
– Fried rice: For a heartier option, serve alongside fried rice loaded with eggs, peas, and carrots.
– Spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer that pairs perfectly with your main dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can make busy weeknights so much easier! You can prepare certain elements in advance or store leftovers effectively. Here’s how to do it right.
Storing Leftovers
– Cool completely before storing: Allow any leftover orange chicken to cool down at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
– Refrigerate promptly: Store your chicken in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It should last for 3–4 days when stored properly.
Freezing
– Portion out for convenience: Divide leftovers into single servings before freezing for easy meals later on.
– Use freezer-safe containers: Ensure you use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
– Microwave method: To reheat in the microwave, place chicken in a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture. Heat at 30-second intervals until warmed through.
– Stovetop method: For best results, reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Quick & Easy Orange Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries along with helpful answers.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well too; just be careful not to overcook it as it can become dry. Cut into similar-sized pieces as thighs for even cooking.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! If you enjoy spice, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes in the sauce or serve with sriracha on the side for dipping.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Quick & Easy Orange Chicken recipe brings joy to your kitchen! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours cooking. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite!
Quick & Easy Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, combine all of the sauce ingredients and mix well.
- Dice the chicken thighs into approximately 1.5-inch cubes.
- Transfer diced chicken into a large mixing bowl and add cornstarch. Toss until evenly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in small batches until golden brown and crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Remove the fried chicken from the pan and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- In the same pan, pour in the prepared sauce and simmer for about one minute until it thickens slightly.
- Add the fried chicken back into the pan with the sauce and toss until well-coated.
- Garnish with orange zest, toasted sesame seeds, and finely chopped green onions before serving.
