Table of Contents
- Why This Classic Orange Chicken Stands Out
- The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Chicken
- The Sweet and Tangy Sauce: A Game Changer
- Tips for Making the Best Classic Orange Chicken
- How to Serve and Pair Your Orange Chicken
- Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Chicken
Key Takeaways
Classic Orange Chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy fried chicken tossed in a flavorful orange sauce, this recipe is easy to make and tastes better than takeout. Follow Clara’s expert tips for a quick and satisfying dinner from Clara Cooks.
Why This Classic Orange Chicken Stands Out
Classic Orange Chicken is a staple of Chinese-American cuisine, known for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Clara from Clara Cooks brings you a tried-and-true version that’s both easy and delicious. The combination of crispy chicken and tangy sauce is what makes this dish unforgettable.
The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Chicken
Achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness is simpler than you think. The key lies in the coating—using a mix of cornstarch and flour creates the ideal crunch. Frying the chicken at the right temperature ensures it stays golden and crispy, ready to soak up the tangy orange sauce.
The Sweet and Tangy Sauce: A Game Changer
The heart of this classic orange chicken recipe is its sauce. With the right balance of fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and just a touch of sweetness, the sauce takes this dish to the next level. Adding a hint of ginger and garlic makes it even more aromatic and irresistible.
Tips for Making the Best Classic Orange Chicken
For a healthier twist, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor, and don’t skip the ginger—it adds depth to the sauce. Clara also recommends serving this dish over steamed rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
How to Serve and Pair Your Orange Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. You can also serve it with noodles for a comforting meal. For a complete Chinese-American feast, add egg rolls or wontons as a side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Chicken
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken in advance. Store them separately and toss them together just before serving to retain the chicken’s crispiness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative, and use tamari instead of soy sauce for the sauce.
Classic Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the mixture.
- Dip the coated chicken pieces into the beaten egg, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the fried chicken in the orange sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
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