Greetings, Zeromedia reader! Are you ready to learn how to make orange chicken?
Making your own orange chicken at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal for yourself or your family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup of cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup of green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and trimming any excess fat. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture until coated evenly.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan and toss to coat evenly. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the orange chicken to a serving platter and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot with rice or noodles, and enjoy!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just make sure to trim any excess fat and cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken breast.
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Yes, you can use any neutral-flavored oil such as canola or peanut oil.
Is it necessary to use red pepper flakes?
No, you can skip the red pepper flakes if you don’t like spicy food. Alternatively, you can add more or less depending on your personal preference.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve learned how to make delicious orange chicken at home! This recipe is versatile and customizable, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this flavorful and easy-to-make dish is sure to impress. Come back soon for more interesting recipes and cooking tips!