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Easy Orange Chicken Recipe

Easy Orange Chicken Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Delight

Try this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe for a quick dinner that's both flavorful and satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Deep frying pan
  • Bowls
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1 lbs Chicken Thighs or chicken tenderloins for a leaner option
  • 1 cup All-purpose Flour can replace with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option
  • 0.5 cup Corn Starch optional for a lighter crunch
  • to taste Black Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder can substitute with fresh onions if desired
  • 1 tsp Ginger Powder fresh ginger can be used for a stronger flavor

For the Sauce

  • 0.5 cup Fresh Orange Juice fresh juice is highly recommended
  • 0.5 cup Soy Sauce opt for low-sodium varieties
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar can substitute with white vinegar if needed
  • 0.25 cup Brown Sugar honey can be swapped for a healthier alternative
  • 1 tbsp Grated Ginger optional if using ginger powder
  • 2 cloves Fresh Garlic adjust quantity to taste
  • 1 tbsp Orange Zest don’t skip it for the best results
  • to taste Chili Flakes optional for heat

For Frying

  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil canola or sunflower oil work well

Instructions
 

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken

  • Begin by dicing the chicken thighs into ½-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, corn starch, and seasonings, then coat the chicken evenly for that perfect crunch.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken and fry for about 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy—avoid overcrowding to ensure each piece cooks beautifully.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: fresh orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, black pepper, and orange zest until smooth and well combined.
  • Pour the prepared sauce into a hot skillet over low heat. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally until it thickens up a bit for a perfect glaze.
  • Add the crispy fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated well. Simmer together for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Plate your Easy Orange Chicken with a side of Lo Mein noodles or fluffy rice. For that professional touch, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

Consider pairing your Easy Orange Chicken with coconut peach chicken for a delightful meal experience. Optional: Add some steamed broccoli or snap peas to brighten the dish and boost nutrition.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg
Keyword chicken, Easy Orange Chicken Recipe, Fried Chicken, orange sauce, Quick Dinner
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