Why make this recipe
This Easy Chinese Orange Chicken is fast, bright, and full of flavor. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. If you like quick dinners, look at more quick & easy recipes for more ideas.
introduction
This orange chicken is crispy on the outside and tender inside. The orange sauce is sweet and a little tangy. It pairs well with plain rice and a simple salad. For a different chicken idea with bold flavor, try this creamy chicken tortilla soup.
how to make Easy Chinese Orange Chicken
This recipe is simple and clear. Follow the steps below to make the dish at home.
Ingredients :
- chicken breast
- cornstarch
- orange juice
- soy sauce
- brown sugar
- garlic
- ginger
- green onions
- orange zest
- rice
Directions :
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat with cornstarch.
- Fry the chicken in a pan until crispy.
- In a bowl, mix together orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and stir to coat.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and orange zest.
how to serve Easy Chinese Orange Chicken
Serve the orange chicken over hot white or brown rice. Add steamed broccoli or a side salad for color. For a quick meal plan, pair this with other simple dishes like the one-pot snacks ideas for easy sides.
how to store Easy Chinese Orange Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat so it stays crispy. Do not leave it out more than two hours.
tips to make Easy Chinese Orange Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry before coating with cornstarch so it gets crisp.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil hot and the chicken crunchy.
- Taste the sauce and add more brown sugar or soy sauce to balance sweet and salty.
- For a faster weeknight version, try a method from other quick options like 15-minute meals to save time.
variation (if any)
- Use orange marmalade in the sauce for thicker, sweeter glaze.
- Try bite-sized tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat, or sesame seeds for extra texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes. Thighs stay juicy and work well. Cut them into bite-size pieces.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) until crisp, then toss with the sauce.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Mix a small spoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the sauce while it simmers until it thickens.
Q: Is fresh orange juice better than store-bought?
A: Fresh juice gives brighter flavor, but store-bought works fine for fast cooking.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce, but the texture may change. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Easy Chinese Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat with cornstarch.
- Pat the chicken dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
- Fry the chicken in a pan until crispy.
- In a bowl, mix together orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and stir to coat.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and orange zest.