What To Know
- Orange chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
- To reheat, place the orange chicken in a skillet or microwave-safe container.
- Making orange chicken ahead of time is a smart and convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
The answer is a resounding yes! Orange chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily prepared ahead of time, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. By following a few simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful dish without the last-minute stress.
Benefits of Making Orange Chicken Ahead of Time
- Time-saving: Prepping and cooking orange chicken ahead of time saves you precious time on busy evenings.
- Stress-free: Knowing that dinner is already taken care of can reduce stress levels during hectic days.
- Flavorful leftovers: Orange chicken tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld.
- Meal prepping: Orange chicken is a great option for meal prepping. Simply portion it out and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for easy weekday meals.
How to Make Orange Chicken Ahead of Time
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat it in cornstarch.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through.
Step 5: Store the Orange Chicken
- Let the orange chicken cool completely.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Step 6: Reheat the Orange Chicken
- To reheat, place the orange chicken in a skillet or microwave-safe container.
- Heat over medium heat or on high power until warmed through.
Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken Ahead of Time
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or orange juice.
- Serve the orange chicken over rice or noodles.
Variations on Orange Chicken
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
- Sweet and sour: Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the orange sauce.
- Sesame: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the orange chicken before serving.
- Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli to the orange chicken for an extra serving of vegetables.
Recommendations: The Art of Make-Ahead Orange Chicken
Making orange chicken ahead of time is a smart and convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish without sacrificing flavor or convenience. By following these simple steps, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option, don’t hesitate to prepare orange chicken ahead of time.
Questions You May Have
Q: How long can I store orange chicken in the refrigerator?
A: Orange chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze orange chicken?
A: Yes, orange chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Q: How do I reheat frozen orange chicken?
A: To reheat frozen orange chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or microwave it on high power until warmed through.
