Orange Chicken
Try this Orange Chicken recipe.
Try this Orange Chicken recipe.
- 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.
Orange Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the never-ending to-do list. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and most importantly, family-approved. This Orange Chicken recipe has become a staple in my household, a true lifesaver on those hectic evenings.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and obscure ingredients. This recipe uses readily available pantry staples and comes together surprisingly fast. The result? A vibrant, flavorful chicken dish that's crispy, tangy, and utterly irresistible. My kids devour it, and even my picky husband asks for seconds! The secret, I believe, is in the perfectly balanced sauce – a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes that creates a taste explosion in every bite. The crispy chicken pieces are the perfect vehicle for this incredible sauce, creating a textural contrast that makes the dish all the more enjoyable.
I often make a double batch on busy Sundays and store the leftovers for quick lunches or another weeknight dinner. It reheats beautifully, retaining much of its original crispness and flavor. The prep time is minimal, and the cooking itself is straightforward, even for novice cooks. I've adapted the recipe over time, experimenting with different levels of spiciness and sweetness to suit our family's preferences. This is a recipe that you can easily customize to your liking – add more chili flakes for a fiery kick, or reduce the sugar for a less sweet version. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Orange Chicken recipe is also a source of pride for me. It's a dish I can confidently serve to guests, knowing it will impress even the most discerning palates. It’s become more than just a meal; it's a symbol of my ability to create something delicious and satisfying despite the demands of my busy life. It's a testament to the idea that even amidst chaos, a little bit of culinary creativity can go a long way. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful meal, give this Orange Chicken a try. I guarantee it will become a new family favorite.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh chili to the sauce for extra heat.
- Make it healthier: Use less oil for frying or bake the chicken instead for a healthier option.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas to the chicken for a more nutritious meal.
- Serve it with: This Orange Chicken is delicious served over rice, noodles, or with a side of steamed vegetables.
This Orange Chicken is more than just a recipe; it's a shortcut to a happy family dinner, a testament to the power of simple pleasures, and a reminder that even the busiest of us can create something delicious and memorable in the kitchen.
