Unlock the secret: how to craft crispy orange chicken without a drop of oil
What To Know
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
Craving the irresistible flavors of orange chicken without the guilt of deep-frying? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will teach you how to make mouthwatering orange chicken at home, using a healthier and equally delicious pan-frying method.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
2. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
4. Add the Sauce to the Chicken:
- Pour the orange sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the orange chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions.
Tips for Success:
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the pieces in the cornstarch mixture.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste preference.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.
Variations:
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken before serving.
- Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of pineapple chunks to the orange sauce.
Healthier Alternatives:
- Use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Swap out honey for maple syrup or brown sugar.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Orange Chicken Guilt-Free
With this simple and flavorful recipe, you can indulge in the delectable flavors of orange chicken without sacrificing your health. The pan-frying method allows you to achieve the same crispy texture without the added calories and fat. So next time you crave orange chicken, give this healthier version a try and let your taste buds dance with delight!
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I store the orange chicken?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free cornstarch and all-purpose flour.
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus juice?
A: Yes, you can use lemon juice or grapefruit juice instead of orange juice.
Q: What sides go well with orange chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, broccoli, or steamed vegetables.
