Easy as pie: how to make orange chicken using chicken nuggets in less than 30 minutes

Craving the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken without the hassle of preparing chicken from scratch? Look no further! This innovative recipe transforms crispy chicken nuggets into a delectable orange chicken dish that will satisfy your cravings in no time.

Ingredients:

• 12-ounce bag of frozen chicken nuggets
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Nuggets: Preheat your oven or air fryer according to the package instructions for frozen chicken nuggets. Cook the nuggets until golden brown and crispy.

2. Make the Orange Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Coat the Chicken Nuggets: Remove the cooked chicken nuggets from the oven or air fryer. Place them in a large bowl and pour the orange sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly.

4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the orange chicken nuggets. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken Nuggets:

• Use high-quality chicken nuggets: For the best flavor, use chicken nuggets made with real chicken and minimal breading.
• Don’t overcook the sauce: The sauce should be thickened but not too thick. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter orange chicken, add more honey or brown sugar to taste.
• Don’t skip the garnish: The chopped green onions add a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a more savory flavor.
• Sesame Orange Chicken Nuggets: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the chicken nuggets after coating them in the orange sauce.

Healthier Options:

• Use air-fried chicken nuggets: Air frying the chicken nuggets reduces the amount of fat compared to deep-frying.
• Make your own orange sauce: Using fresh orange juice and honey instead of pre-made sauces can reduce added sugar and preservatives.
• Serve with brown rice: Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice and provides more fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook the chicken in a skillet until golden brown before coating it in the orange sauce.

Q: Can I make the orange chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the orange chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Q: What sides go well with orange chicken nuggets?
A: Rice, stir-fried vegetables, egg rolls, spring rolls, or wonton soup are all great sides to serve with orange chicken nuggets.