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+ servings
Hot Orange Chicken

Hot Orange Chicken: Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy Homemade Delight

Enjoy a crispy and flavorful Hot Orange Chicken recipe, a delightful homemade version of a takeout favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with thighs for added moisture.
  • ½ cup Cornstarch Creates a crispy texture; swap with flour for different breading.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the breading; omit for an egg-free option.
For the Orange Sauce
  • 1 cup Orange Juice Fresh-squeezed is always best!
  • ½ cup Sugar Balances the acidity of the sauce.
  • ¼ cup Soy Sauce Tamari works for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Paste/Sriracha Delivers heat; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
  • to taste Dried Chili Peppers/Red Pepper Flakes Omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
Garnish
  • to taste Green Onions Adds a pop of freshness; substitute with chives if needed.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • Wok
  • Tongs
  • Measuring Cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of fresh orange juice, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of chili paste or Sriracha. Whisk until sugar dissolves.
  2. Cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Coat chicken with ½ cup of cornstarch, ensuring every piece is covered. Dip in a beaten egg, then return to cornstarch for a double layer.
  3. Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken, frying for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
  4. In a wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Pour in the orange sauce and simmer until thickened. Add the crispy chicken pieces, tossing gently to coat.
  5. Transfer to a serving plate, garnishing with sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the Hot Orange Chicken sit for a minute after cooking to help the sauce set and intensify the flavors.

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