why make this recipe
Homemade crispy orange chicken is a delightful way to enjoy a takeout favorite right in your kitchen. Not only can you control the ingredients, but you can also adjust the flavor to your liking. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and zest, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that you can enjoy with family or friends!
how to make Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Orange slices
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Dip chicken pieces in the beaten eggs, then coat them in the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Toss the crispy chicken in the orange sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and orange slices.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
how to serve Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken
Serve crispy orange chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, which help balance the sweetness of the orange sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some fresh fruit.
how to store Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken
To store your leftover crispy orange chicken, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven for a few minutes until heated through to maintain its crispiness, rather than using the microwave.
tips to make Crispy Homemade Orange Chicken
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to get that perfect crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by using more or less honey/brown sugar according to your taste.
- For extra crunch, allow the fried chicken to rest for a minute before tossing it in the orange sauce.
variation
You can switch things up by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the orange sauce for a healthier twist. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chili paste to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting and frying.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before tossing it with the fried chicken.
What if I don’t have fresh orange juice?
If fresh orange juice isn’t available, you can use bottled orange juice, but make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars for the best flavor.
