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+ servings
Crispy Orange Chicken

Crispy Orange Chicken

Delight in this Crispy Orange Chicken recipe, a homemade Chinese classic bursting with flavor and crunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Recipes
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 445

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs about 6 thighs, or 3 chicken breasts
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1.25 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • to taste vegetable oil for frying depending on the size of your pan
  • 1 large orange juice and zest
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 0.25 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 large garlic cloves minced, or 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp of water
  • sesame seeds optional
  • green onions chopped, optional
  • red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • deep fryer
  • Slotted Spoon
  • plate

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the egg, oil, and water, whisking until smooth.
  3. Add the chicken cubes to the mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and chill for 30 minutes in the fridge.
  4. In a medium saucepan or deep fryer, add 2 inches of oil and heat to 350˚F (177˚C). Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.
  5. Add the marinated chicken cubes in batches of about 10-15 pieces, shaking off excess batter if needed. Deep fry for 2-3 minutes until golden, turning halfway through with a slotted spoon for even browning.
  6. Remove the chicken to the plate and cover with foil to keep warm while making the sauce.
  7. To a medium saucepan, add orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic. Place over medium heat and bring to a low boil.
  8. Carefully taste a few drops and adjust sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar to suit your preference.
  9. Mix the cornstarch and water in a cup to make a slurry and pour into the sauce. Stir constantly until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  10. Add the fried chicken and toss until the sauce coats it thoroughly.
  11. Garnish with optional sesame seeds, green onions, and red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 445kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 27gFat: 10gSodium: 547mgFiber: 2gSugar: 31g

Notes

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation. Experiment with different citrus fruits for a unique twist.

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