Orange Chicken Recipes is a delightful Chinese-American dish that combines crispy fried chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This popular recipe is known for its vibrant flavor and satisfying texture, making it a favorite in many households and restaurants.
The dish features tender chicken thighs coated in a light, crispy batter, then tossed in a sauce made from fresh orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of ginger and garlic. Perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, Orange Chicken is often served with steamed rice, making it a complete and delicious meal.
History of Orange Chicken Recipes
Orange Chicken Recipes is a beloved dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Here’s a look at its fascinating history
Origins
Chinese Roots: The concept of combining chicken with citrus flavors can be traced back to traditional Chinese cuisine. In Hunan province, a dish called “tangerine chicken” (陳皮雞) uses dried tangerine peel to flavor the chicken.
American Creation: The version of Orange Chicken Recipes we know today was created in the United States. It is believed to have been developed by Chinese-American chefs who adapted traditional recipes to suit American tastes.
Orange Chicken Recipes | Very Easy
Ingredient
For the Chicken
For the Sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
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chicken mixture
- In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour together.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg with water, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat them in the cornstarch-flour mixture.
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Chicken Fry
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
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Sauce Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
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Sauce cook
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
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Sesame
Add the sesame oil and stir well.
Combine and Serve
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Add
Toss the fried chicken pieces in the orange sauce until they are well coated.
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Serve
Serve immediately with steamed rice and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Note
- Ingredient Quality:
Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients provide a more vibrant and natural taste compared to bottled juice.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Preparation Tips:
Marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and rice wine for 15-20 minutes before coating it in the batter.
This adds extra flavor to the chicken.Ensure the cornstarch and flour mixture is well combined to create an even coating on the chicken pieces.
More History of Orange Chicken Recipes
- 1970s: Chinese-American chefs in California and New York began experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, leading to the creation of the sweet and tangy sauce that characterizes Orange Chicken.
- 1980s: Panda Express, a fast-food chain founded in 1983 played a significant role in popularizing Orange Chicken. Chef Andy Kao is credited with developing the original recipe at a Panda Express in Hawaii in 1987.
- Global Spread: By the 1990s, Orange Chicken had become a staple in Chinese restaurants around the world. Its popularity continued to grow, and it became a favorite in school cafeterias, military bases, and even supermarket frozen meal aisles.
- Cultural Impact: Orange Chicken Recipes is often seen as a symbol of Chinese-American cuisine showcasing the fusion of traditional Chinese flavors with American tastes. It is a prime example of how immigrant communities adapt and innovate to create new culinary traditions.
- Healthier Options: With the rise of health-conscious eating, variations of Orange Chicken have emerged, including baked or air-fried versions.
- Creative Twists: Chefs continue to experiment with the dish, adding ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, or even incorporating different citrus fruits for unique flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly spray them with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
To make the sauce less sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar. Start by adding half the amount of sugar called for in the recipe, then taste and adjust as needed. You can also add a bit more soy sauce or rice vinegar to balance the sweetness.
Hot Orange Chicken is a spicier twist on their classic Orange Chicken. This version includes liberal amounts of chili flakes and Tianjin peppers, giving it a significant heat boost. The dish combines the bright, tangy flavor of orange with a crunchy breading and juicy chicken, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Hot Orange Chicken is a spicier version of their classic Orange Chicken. This dish features the same tangy orange sauce but with a significant heat boost from chili flakes and Tianjin peppers. It’s designed for those who enjoy a bit more spice in their meals.
