Description
Recreate the iconic sweet and tangy flavor and perfect crispy texture of your favorite takeout with this easy-to-follow Orange Chicken recipe. Save money and control your ingredients for a delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Batter:
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold water (or light beer)
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for slurry)
- 1 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep & Marinate Chicken
Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp minced ginger, and 1 tsp minced garlic. Marinate for 15-20 minutes. - Step 2: Prepare Batter
Whisk cornstarch, flour, baking soda, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Gradually add cold water, whisking until smooth and lump-free, like pancake batter. - Step 3: Double Fry Chicken
Heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Dip chicken in batter, then fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and drain. Increase oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry chicken a second time for 1-2 minutes until deep golden and crispy. - Step 4: Craft the Orange Sauce
In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, 1/4 cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, remaining ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water (slurry). Whisk slurry into simmering sauce; cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. - Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add double-fried chicken to a large bowl or saucepan. Pour warm orange sauce over chicken and toss gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately with rice or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins