Better Than Takeout – Orange Chicken Recipe

Are you craving a zingy, sweet, and savory dish that’s better than what you’d get from your favorite takeout joint? Look no further! This Orange Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to make at home. With vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch, it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Why Orange Chicken is a Must-Try!

This Chinese-American classic is popular for a reason! The combination of crispy chicken coated in a luscious orange sauce hits all the right notes for a fulfilling meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a weeknight treat, orange chicken is the perfect dish to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to traditional takeout, allowing you to control the ingredients and make it just the way you like it!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• Red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
3. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. In a deep pan or skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
3. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked chicken with the orange sauce until well-coated.
2. Serve your homemade orange chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete meal!

Tips and Variations

• Make it Healthier: For a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying! Simply place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you like your food with a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce.

In Closing

Now that you know how to make this easy Orange Chicken recipe, it’s time to give it a try! This dish will not only satisfy your cravings but also impress everyone around your dinner table. So what are you waiting for? Whip up this better than takeout orange chicken tonight and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking! 🍊🍗