A delicious and crispy orange chicken recipe that combines the flavors of citrus and spice for a delightful meal.
Author:Jessica
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Asian
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs, whisked
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to preference)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons canola oil (for frying)
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Mix the flour, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss the diced chicken thighs in this seasoned flour until well coated, then shake off any excess.
Dip each piece of floured chicken into the whisked eggs, ensuring they are fully coated, and then roll them in panko breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to ensure they stick.
Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches, cooking each until they are golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
In a separate saucepan, mix together the fresh orange juice, granulated sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Carefully add the crispy chicken to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure each piece is well coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider baking the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
Incorporate steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and vibrant color.