What To Know
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the orange sauce for a kick of heat.
Craving a savory and satisfying dish that tantalizes your taste buds? Look no further than the classic combination of orange chicken and fluffy white rice. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll embark on a culinary adventure, revealing the secrets to creating this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Orange Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the White Rice:
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the cornstarch mixture.
2. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the oil and set it aside on paper towels to drain.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and garlic powder.
- Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the fried chicken to the orange sauce and stir to coat.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is evenly glazed.
5. Cook the White Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white rice, water, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff the Rice:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the orange chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
- To ensure the chicken is crispy, make sure the oil is hot before frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken.
- Simmer the orange sauce until it thickens to prevent it from being too runny.
- If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the sauce to your preferred sweetness level.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the orange sauce for a kick of heat.
- Lemon Orange Chicken: Substitute lemon juice for orange juice in the sauce for a tangy twist.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Toast sesame seeds in a skillet and sprinkle them over the finished dish for a nutty flavor.
Healthier Options
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of honey in the sauce and use a sugar substitute instead.
- Bake the chicken instead of frying it for a lower-fat option.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, you now possess the culinary prowess to create an unforgettable orange chicken and white rice dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Experiment with the variations and healthier options to suit your preferences. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat before serving.
Q: What can I serve with orange chicken and white rice?
A: Orange chicken and white rice can be served with a variety of sides, such as steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or egg rolls.
Q: How can I make my orange chicken extra crispy?
A: To make your orange chicken extra crispy, double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture before frying.
