Mastering the Art of Making Orange Chicken
Orange chicken is a popular dish that combines the tangy flavors of citrus with the savory taste of chicken. This article will guide you through the process of making delicious orange chicken at home. With a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends.
To make orange chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. This will be the marinade for the chicken.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
4. In a deep skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water, stirring until the cornstarch is dissolved. Add the remaining marinade to the saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain on a paper towel to remove any excess oil. Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
Making orange chicken at home is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will rival any restaurant version. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, orange chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of tangy citrus and tender chicken?
