Elevate your home cooking: how to create restaurant-quality orange chicken using orange marmalade

Craving the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken but want to elevate it with a homemade twist? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the art of creating delectable orange chicken using the sweet and tangy embrace of orange marmalade. Embark on this culinary adventure and prepare to savor a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you longing for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 (12-ounce) jar of orange marmalade
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions:

#1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the flour, cornstarch, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

#2. Fry the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

#3. Make the Orange Sauce:

In a separate saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

#4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

Add the fried chicken to the thickened orange sauce and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.

#5. Garnish and Serve:

Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish and garnish with thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken:

• For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces in flour and cornstarch before frying.
• To make the sauce spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce.
• For a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or honey.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.
• Serve the orange chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Variations:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the chicken before serving for an extra nutty flavor.

The Art of Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that adds a delightful sweetness and tang to various dishes. It is made from oranges, sugar, and water, and can range in texture from smooth to chunky. When used in orange chicken, it infuses the dish with a vibrant citrus flavor that complements the savory chicken and crispy coating.

Health Benefits of Orange Marmalade:

• Rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune system health
• Contains pectin, a soluble fiber that aids in digestion
• Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure
• May have anti-inflammatory properties

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh oranges instead of orange marmalade?

Yes, you can use fresh oranges to make your own orange sauce. Simply juice 2-3 oranges and add the juice to the sauce ingredients.

2. How do I store leftover orange chicken?

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

3. What sides go well with orange chicken?

Serve orange chicken with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.