How to Fry Orange Chicken
If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you’ve probably encountered the delightful flavors of orange chicken. This popular dish combines the zesty taste of oranges with crispy fried chicken, creating a mouthwatering combination that is hard to resist. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply craving some Chinese takeout at home, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fry orange chicken to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and orange zest. This will be our flavorful marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight.
- Meanwhile, prepare the coating for the chicken by combining the cornstarch and all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Season it with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure there is enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any excess coating before adding the chicken to the hot oil.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help remove any excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces until all are cooked.
- Garnish your orange chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an added visual appeal.
- Serve the crispy orange chicken immediately with a side of steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried vegetables.
Now that you know how to fry orange chicken at home, you can enjoy this beloved Chinese dish whenever the craving strikes. Remember to experiment with the flavors to make it your own – you can add some spice with red pepper flakes or a touch of garlic for an extra kick. Happy cooking!
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FAQ:
What ingredients do I need to fry orange chicken?
To fry orange chicken, you will need boneless chicken pieces, orange juice, soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, orange zest, vinegar, sugar, salt, and vegetable oil for frying.
Should I use fresh oranges or bottled orange juice for orange chicken?
While using freshly squeezed orange juice can give a more vibrant flavor, using bottled orange juice is also acceptable. Just make sure to choose a 100% pure orange juice without any added sugars or artificial flavors.
How do I make the chicken crispy when frying orange chicken?
To make the chicken crispy when frying orange chicken, marinate the chicken in a mixture of cornstarch, soy sauce, and ginger. This will create a coating that becomes crispy when fried.
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless for orange chicken?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken pieces for orange chicken. Keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require longer frying time compared to boneless chicken, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan alternative for orange chicken?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan alternative for orange chicken by using tofu or seitan instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu or seitan in a similar cornstarch and soy sauce mixture, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make orange chicken ahead of time and reheat it later?
While it’s best to enjoy orange chicken fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the chicken in an oven instead of a microwave. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake it at a low temperature until heated through.
What side dishes pair well with orange chicken?
Orange chicken goes well with various side dishes. Some popular options include steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, you could also serve it with spring rolls or egg rolls as appetizers.
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