If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, this hot orange chicken recipe is just what you need. Combining the sweet citrus flavor of orange with the heat of chili, this dish will bring an exciting twist to your meal. The focus keyword here is “hot orange chicken,” making it stand out for its bold fusion of flavors.
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I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering one summer. My cousin, known as the experimental cook in the family, wanted to try something new. The combination of orange and spices seemed unusual at first, but everyone was stunned by the unique taste it delivered. Since that day, it has been a favorite at every family event, becoming a cherished tradition we look forward to. It brings us together, with flavors rich enough to spark memories of our fun, food-filled evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its vibrant combination of flavors that will surely impress your taste buds. The tangy sweetness of fresh orange parallels the fiery kick from chili, creating a balance of flavors that is both unique and delicious. It’s a practical dish to prepare with straightforward steps and no fancy techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking newbie, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and delightfully rewarding.
Ingredients Notes
To ensure the best quality, choose fresh organic oranges and opt for a high-quality chili sauce reflecting your desired heat level. If you can’t find fresh chili, a good substitute is red pepper flakes. Chicken thighs work well for this dish due to their tender texture, but chicken breast can be used as a leaner option. Marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours will maximize flavor infusion.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by zesting and juicing fresh oranges, setting aside the juice and zest for later use. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, and chili sauce to create the marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, coating them thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 3
After marinating, heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken evenly, ensuring it’s golden brown on all sides.
Step 4
Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, allowing it to simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 5
Garnish with freshly chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving hot alongside steamed rice or noodles.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Variations & Substitutions
For a milder dish, substitute bell peppers for chili or use a sweet chili sauce. To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for tofu, ensuring you press out excess moisture first. Add your preferred vegetables for added nutrition and variety.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs excellently with jasmine rice or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to weekend get-togethers. Enhance the citrus notes by complementing it with a light, zesty white wine or a chilled lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other citrus fruits besides oranges? Absolutely! While orange provides a specific sweetness and acidity, experimenting with lemon or lime can give different flavor profiles. Just note that these alternatives might alter the sweetness, requiring slight adjustments to balance the taste.
How can I reduce the spiciness if it’s too hot? If the heat is overwhelming, consider reducing the chili sauce quantity or mixing it with honey for sweetness. Balancing it with a dollop of plain yogurt on the side can also help mellow out the flavors without altering the dish.
What sides work best with this dish? Aside from rice, consider serving with quinoa or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. A mixed vegetable stir-fry or sautéed greens would add color and health benefits to your plate.
How to Rock Your Dinner with Our 7-Step Hot Orange Chicken Recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 2 cups cornstarch for coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups orange juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 0.75 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water for slurry
- 1.5 cups dried red chili peppers whole
- 2.5 tablespoons red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 tablespoon ginger freshly grated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and 2 tbsp of sesame oil in a medium bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Whisk together eggs and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in another bowl until slightly foamy.
- Mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a large dish to coat the chicken.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pot to 375°F.
- Dip chicken pieces in egg mixture and then coat with cornstarch mixture. Fry in batches until crispy and golden.
- In a wok, heat sesame oil and fry the dried chili peppers and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir briefly, and pour in the orange sauce. Simmer until it thickens, then add chicken and toss to coat.
