Orange Chicken
Try this Orange Chicken recipe.
Try this Orange Chicken recipe.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 4 egg whites
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- dash salt
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic pressed
- 1 tbsp packed brown sugar
- 4 boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- and frac12 cup orange juice (i used simply orange)
- and frac14 tsp sesame oil
- dash crushed red pepper
- a little grated or minced ginger
- vegetable or peanut oil for frying
- Carbohydrate 8.95659208726793 g
- Cholesterol 78.96 mg
- Fat 14.5182666669225 g
- Fiber 0.966000001363864 g
- Protein 21.4189716698607 g
- Saturated Fat 4.13943000003326 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (205g)
- Sodium 209.28450000714 mg
- Sugar 7.99059208590406 g
- Trans Fat 1.02837000011887 g
- Calories 254 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine soy sauce, egg whites, 2 tbsp cornstarch, salt, rice wine vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tbsp cornstarch, orange juice, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Pour the orange juice mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
My Go-To Orange Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I need recipes that are quick, delicious, and satisfying. This Orange Chicken recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's become a staple in our household, a dish that's both impressive enough for a dinner party and easy enough for a weeknight meal. What I love most is its versatility; I can easily adapt it based on what I have on hand, making it a truly go-to recipe for me.
The marinade is key. It's a simple blend of soy sauce, egg whites (for extra tenderness!), cornstarch (for that beautiful glossy finish), and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. The orange juice provides the signature bright, citrusy flavor that makes this dish so addictive. I usually use Simply Orange juice, but any good quality fresh squeezed juice will do. A little bit of ginger and garlic adds warmth and depth, perfectly balancing the sweetness and tang. The process is straightforward; marinate the chicken, fry it until perfectly golden and crispy, and then toss it in a vibrant, slightly sweet and savory sauce. The whole thing comes together in under an hour, freeing up time for me to focus on other aspects of my busy life.
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Sometimes I add a little extra chili flakes for a spicier kick, other times I swap out the chicken thighs for breast for a leaner option. I’ve even experimented with using different citrus fruits, like mandarins or even grapefruit for a unique twist. The result is always delicious. The kids love it, my husband loves it, and I love the ease with which I can pull it off even on the most hectic of evenings. It's a testament to how a simple, well-executed recipe can be a true lifesaver for the busy modern woman.
This Orange Chicken recipe isn't just a meal; it’s a symbol of efficiency and deliciousness. It’s a testament to the fact that you can have both a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispiness of the chicken, the vibrant color of the sauce, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors make this dish a true winner. I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't be disappointed!
Beyond the practical benefits, this dish also brings a sense of joy and comfort to our family. It's a dish that we all look forward to, a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a delicious, homemade meal. And that, in itself, is a priceless ingredient.
Tips and variations:
- For a thicker sauce, use a bit more cornstarch.
- Add some sliced green onions or sesame seeds for garnish.
- Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots would all be delicious additions.
- If you don't have rice wine vinegar, you can substitute with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
This Orange Chicken is more than just a recipe; it's a solution, a time-saver, and a delicious meal that brings a touch of happiness to our family table. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
