Orange Chicken is a dish that needs no introduction. Its name alone evokes images of crunchy, shallow-fried chicken coated in a tantalizing orange sauce, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang. But don't mistake it for a mere takeout classic. This restaurant-quality recipe has undergone refinements over the years, resulting in a dish that is truly exceptional.
More Than Just Orange Chicken
This recipe is the culmination of my experience working in Chinese restaurant kitchens, cooking at home, and exploring various dining establishments. Orange Chicken is akin to the beloved sweet and sour chicken, but with an intriguing twist. While sweet and sour chicken relies on the zing of vinegar and pineapple juice, orange chicken opts for the vibrant flavors of orange juice instead. But that's not all; this recipe goes the extra mile by incorporating aromatics like dried hot chili peppers, star anise, and dried tangerine peels. These ingredients add depth and elevate the flavors of the sauce to new heights.
Orange chicken recipe.
Feel free to use either dark or white meat for this dish. In this recipe, we've chosen chicken breast for its tenderness, but boneless skinless chicken thighs work just as well if you have a preference. Velveting, a traditional step in Chinese cooking, is not necessary here. Instead, we achieve that mouthwatering crispy coating by simply dredging the marinated chicken in cornstarch.
If you can't get enough of this recipe, be sure to check out our classic General Tso's Chicken!
Orange Chicken Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by adding the chicken to a dish and marinating it in a mixture of water, Shaoxing wine, salt, garlic powder, sesame oil, and white pepper. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate it covered overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once marinated, coat the chicken evenly by dredging it in cornstarch.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Create the delicious orange chicken sauce by combining orange juice, chicken stock, sugar, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and salt. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors according to your preferences. If you like it tart, add more rice vinegar; if you prefer it saltier, add more salt or oyster sauce; and for a sweeter touch, a little extra sugar.
Soak the dried tangerine peels, whole dried chili peppers, and star anise in room temperature water for 2 minutes. Drain them before toasting them in a dry wok to bring out their flavors. Be careful with the chili peppers, as breaking them open will make the dish spicier than intended!
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat canola oil in a wok to 350°F/175°C. You'll need to shallow-fry the chicken in two batches for optimal results. Place half of the chicken into the wok and fry until it turns golden brown, turning it halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack set over a sheet pan. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken.
If you desire an extra crispy texture, especially with dark meat, you can give the chicken a second fry for 1 to 2 minutes after it has rested for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for maximum indulgence.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Remove most of the oil from the wok, leaving behind approximately 1 tablespoon. Over medium-low heat, add the tangerine peel, chili peppers, and star anise. Toast these aromatic ingredients for 30 seconds until they become fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
Next, add the ginger and garlic (if using) and cook for 10 seconds. Then, introduce the prepared sauce mixture to the wok and bring it to a simmer.
Stir the cornstarch slurry and gradually add it to the sauce, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired thickness. You may not need all of the slurry to achieve your preferred consistency.
When the sauce is ready, add the fried chicken and scallions. Toss everything together quickly, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve your orange chicken, relishing in its crispiness and succulent taste.
Transferring orange chicken from wok onto serving plate
Now it's time to enjoy your masterpiece and savor each delectable bite. For a more immersive experience, you can also watch the full recipe tutorial for orange chicken on our YouTube channel!
