Orange Chicken
Try this Orange Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Orange Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 egg whites
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- dash salt
- 1 clove garlic pressed
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- 4 pieces
- dash crushed red pepper
- a little grated or minced ginger
- vegetable or peanut oil for frying
- 1/2 cup orange juice (i used simply orange)
- Carbohydrate 12.7416858430103 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.470766666922463 g
- Fiber 0.992250000171771 g
- Protein 5.26879666986775 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0576400000332616 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (114g)
- Sodium 139.019500008779 mg
- Sugar 11.7494358428385 g
- Trans Fat 0.12895250011887 g
- Calories 73 calories
Step-by-step
- For the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg whites with a fork until almost frothy, about 1 minute. Add the chicken to the mixture and allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
- For the sauce: Meanwhile, put the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, salt, crushed red pepper, garlic and ginger in a small nonstick skillet and whisk. Heat until bubbling and starting to thicken, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Mix in and thicken for 1 minute.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven until a deep-fry thermometer inserted in the oil registers 350 degrees F. Carefully drop the chicken into the oil and move it around, flipping gently, until golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Let the pieces drain on a plate lined with paper towels for 2 to 3 minutes. Then drop them back into the oil for 1 minute to really solidify the coating.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce and serve.
My Favorite Weeknight Orange Chicken
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can often feel like a Herculean task. But, let me tell you, this Orange Chicken recipe is my secret weapon for effortlessly impressing my family and myself after a long day. It’s quick, flavorful, and surprisingly easy, even on those evenings when energy levels are low. The vibrant orange sauce, the perfectly crispy chicken – it’s a dish that elevates a simple weeknight meal to something special. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze!
I stumbled upon this recipe a few years ago while searching for quick and easy weeknight dinners. I was immediately drawn to its simplicity – the ingredient list is short and manageable, perfect for a busy schedule. The instructions are easy to follow, and the results are always consistently delicious. My family, even my picky eaters, adore this Orange Chicken. It's become a regular fixture on our dinner rotation, a comfort food that's both satisfying and exciting.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Feel free to adjust the amount of spice to your liking, adding more or less of the crushed red pepper. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with peanut oil for a different flavor profile. I’ve even experimented with adding different vegetables, like broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers, to the chicken while it’s frying – a simple addition that makes the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
The beauty of this Orange Chicken is that it's a blank canvas for creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment! Try adding a touch of honey to the sauce for extra sweetness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a zingy twist. The possibilities are endless. I've found that a little bit of extra ginger elevates the flavors, adding a subtle warmth that complements the tangy orange sauce. I usually grate fresh ginger, but if you're short on time, pre-grated ginger from the supermarket works just fine.
This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it's a reminder that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a testament to the fact that even amidst a busy life, we can still create heartwarming and satisfying meals for ourselves and our loved ones. So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your day, remember this Orange Chicken recipe. It’s a simple joy, a little bit of happiness on a plate, that effortlessly transforms a busy weeknight into something truly special. And the best part? You get to enjoy every delicious bite without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s a win-win in my book!
Beyond being a quick and tasty weeknight meal, this Orange Chicken has become a staple for potlucks and gatherings. Its vibrant color and appealing aroma always draw people in, and the delicious flavor never disappoints. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to impress. I've taken it to countless family gatherings and office potlucks, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.
The versatility of this dish extends beyond its adaptability to different tastes. It pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. I often serve it with steamed rice, which soaks up the delicious orange sauce perfectly. A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. For a more complete meal, I sometimes add a side of stir-fried vegetables. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize the meal to perfectly complement your personal preferences and the season.
This Orange Chicken recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience. It's a reminder that even the simplest of meals can be extraordinary. It’s a symbol of comfort, a taste of home, and a celebration of simple joys in a busy life. So, go ahead, try it for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
