What To Know
- Replace half of the sugar in the orange sauce with honey for a sweeter flavor.
- Deep-fried orange chicken is a culinary delight that combines the crispy crunch of fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of orange sauce.
- You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of deep-fried orange chicken, a culinary masterpiece that has captivated taste buds worldwide. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you create restaurant-quality orange chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk the egg. In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the cornstarch mixture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Orange Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, chicken broth, granulated sugar, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Glaze the Chicken
Return the fried chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the deep-fried orange chicken immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Double-coat the chicken to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Adjust the heat of the oil as needed to maintain a constant temperature.
- Serve the orange chicken immediately to enjoy its crispy texture.
Variations:
Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey Orange Chicken: Replace half of the sugar in the orange sauce with honey for a sweeter flavor.
Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving for an extra layer of nutty flavor.
The Verdict:
Deep-fried orange chicken is a culinary delight that combines the crispy crunch of fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of orange sauce. By following these simple steps, you can create this restaurant-quality dish at home and impress your family and friends.
FAQ:
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.
2. What is a good substitute for cornstarch?
You can use all-purpose flour or potato starch as a substitute for cornstarch.
3. How can I thicken the orange sauce?
If the orange sauce is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and stir until thickened.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven before serving.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or stir-fried vegetables are all great side dishes to serve with orange chicken.
