Here’s a simple recipe for easy orange chicken that you can make at home:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Optional Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Orange zest
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Place the cornstarch in a shallow bowl. Dredge the chicken pieces in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in batches and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Orange Sauce: In the same skillet or wok, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened orange sauce. Toss the chicken pieces in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Serve: Transfer the orange chicken to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and orange zest, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the easy orange chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles, and your favorite vegetables.
This easy orange chicken recipe is quick to make and bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that the whole family will love!