There’s something utterly delightful about biting into a piece of Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken. The explosion of flavors takes your taste buds on a joyride—think zesty, sweet, and just the right degree of savory. Imagine the scent of freshly cooked chicken, all golden and crispy, mingling with the irresistible aromas of orange juice and garlic wafting through your kitchen. It’s a culinary adventure that will whisk you away from your mundane weeknight meals!
This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I vividly remember the first time I treated my family to this glorious creation. The look on their faces as they devoured each bite was priceless! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply trying to break up the routine of boring meals, this Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken is the perfect standout dish that promises not just great taste but also heartfelt connections around the table.
Why You'll Love This Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken
- This incredible Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken:
90 g (3/4 cup) plain (all-purpose) flour – Essential for creating a light batter that coats the chicken beautifully.
1 medium egg – Acts as a binding agent, helping the flour stick to the chicken.
¼ tsp garlic salt – Adds a subtle hint of garlic flavor to enhance the dish.
Pinch of salt and pepper – Basic seasoning that brings out the flavors of the chicken.
90 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) cold water – Used to achieve the desired consistency for the batter.
8 chicken thigh fillets (skinless and boneless) – Juicy and tender, these are perfect for this recipe and pack a lot of flavor.
2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch) – Helps to create an extra-crispy coating on the chicken.
120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil – For frying the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
Juice of 2 large oranges – The star ingredient that brings the sweet and tangy flavor to life.
Zest of half an orange – Adds an additional burst of fresh orange flavor and aroma.
6 tbsp caster sugar or superfine sugar – Balances the acidity of the orange juice for that perfect sweet touch.
5 tbsp soy sauce – Provides depth and a savory umami flavor.
2 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh garlic kicks up the flavor profile of the sauce.
1 tsp minced ginger – Adds a zesty warmth that complements the orange beautifully.
1 tsp rice vinegar – Contributes a subtle tanginess to the sauce.
1 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with 3 tbsp cold water to form a slurry (optional) – This is essential if you want to achieve a thicker sauce.
Boiled rice – Serves as a perfect base for the orange chicken, soaking up all those delectable flavors.
1 tsp sesame seeds – For garnish, offering a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, egg, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and cold water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Place the chopped chicken thighs into a separate bowl and sprinkle the cornflour over the chicken. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
Pour the prepared batter over the coated chicken and mix until every piece is well-coated. This step is crucial for achieving crispy, flavorful bites.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together the orange juice, orange zest, caster sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and rice vinegar. This zesty concoction is what makes this dish stand out.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once all the chicken is fried, carefully pour out any excess oil from the wok. Lower the heat to medium, add the orange sauce, and bring to a boil before simmering for a few minutes until slightly thickened. If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually stir in the cornstarch slurry until you reach the desired consistency. Return the chicken to the wok, toss to coat thoroughly, and serve over boiled rice, topping with sesame seeds for that extra crunch.
Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends, knowing you’ve created something truly special in just 30 minutes!
You Must Know About Sweet and tangy orange chicken
- This showstopping Sweet and tangy orange chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Sweet and tangy orange chicken Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with Sweet and tangy orange chicken, start with the batter and chicken. While the chicken rests in the batter, prepare the sauce. This sequence maximizes flavor and minimizes kitchen chaos.
Add Your Touch to Sweet and tangy orange chicken
Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat. For added crunch, include vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Experiment with honey or maple syrup as a sweetener for a different flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating Sweet and tangy orange chicken
Store leftover Sweet and tangy orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to maintain the crispy coating while ensuring the chicken warms through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Sweet and tangy orange chicken
- This professional-quality Sweet and tangy orange chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this dish at my last family gathering led to a culinary showdown! Everyone raved about the vibrant flavors and I secretly delighted in their surprised faces when they learned it took just 30 minutes to prepare.
FAQs About Sweet and tangy orange chicken
What is Sweet and tangy orange chicken?
Sweet and tangy orange chicken is a beloved dish known for its crispy chicken chunks enveloped in a deliciously vibrant orange sauce. The sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, incorporating fresh orange juice and zest alongside soy sauce and sugar. It’s often served over rice and garnished with sesame seeds, making for a beautiful and mouthwatering presentation. This dish brings a taste of Asian cuisine into your home kitchen, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
How long does it take to make Sweet and tangy orange chicken?
Making Sweet and tangy orange chicken is incredibly quick, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. With 15 minutes for prep and another 15 for cooking, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. The speedy nature of this recipe makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade yet satisfying.
Can I customize Sweet and tangy orange chicken?
Absolutely! Sweet and tangy orange chicken is versatile, inviting you to experiment with various ingredients. You can swap out chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner version or add colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. Additionally, consider using maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a unique twist on the sweetness. Tailoring this dish to your tastes makes it even more enjoyable.
What should I serve with Sweet and tangy orange chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with boiled rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce. For a more nutritious option, try serving it over steamed quinoa or cauliflower rice. You can also add a side of sautéed vegetables for balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider putting together a fresh salad with citrus dressing, creating a refreshing contrast to the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.
Conclusion for Sweet and tangy orange chicken
In summary, Sweet and tangy orange chicken is an easy-to-make and flavorful dish that can elevate any dinner table. With its quick prep and cook time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes. Feel free to customize it to fit your dietary preferences by swapping chicken cuts or adding vegetables. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Sweet and tangy orange chicken is sure to impress!
Sweet and Tangy Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add the plain (all-purpose) flour, egg, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and water and mix together using a whisk until smooth.
- Place the chopped chicken thighs in a separate bowl and sprinkle on the cornflour. Toss together so the chicken is coated in the cornflour.
- Add the chicken to the batter and mix together to coat the chicken in the batter.
- Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the orange juice and zest, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Set aside.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken in batches and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked throughout. Place cooked chicken in a bowl lined with kitchen paper.
- Carefully dispose of any leftover oil from the wok and turn down the heat to medium. Add the orange sauce to the pan, bring to the boil, and simmer until slightly thickened.
- If desired, gradually pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring to thicken further.
- Add the chicken back to the wok and toss together until coated in the sauce.
- Serve the chicken over boiled rice, topped with sesame seeds.
