Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Asian cuisine with our Savory and Sweet Stir-Fried Orange Chicken Recipe, a delightful dish that harmoniously blends the savory notes of chicken with the tangy sweetness of orange. A staple in the culinary repertoire of Chinese-American restaurants, this dish has won the hearts of countless food lovers across the globe. It has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of the fusion between Eastern and Western tastes, and is now a beloved part of family meals and festive occasions.
What makes this version of the Orange Chicken stand apart is its perfect balance. The chicken, stir-fried to a tender succulence, is enrobed in a sauce that is a culinary masterpiece in itself. Crafted with fresh Oranges, it presents a tangy sweetness that is beautifully contrasted by hints of soy and garlic. The result? Each bite is an explosion of flavors, a tantalizing dance of sweet, tangy, and savory on your tongue, that leaves you reaching for more.
We recommend serving this stir-fried orange chicken hot, right out of the wok, accompanied by a bowl of steaming jasmine rice. The mildness of the rice complements the intensity of the chicken, creating a dining experience that is both comforting and exhilarating. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a new dish to spice up your weeknight meals, our Stir-Fried Orange Chicken Recipe is sure to be a hit!
Main Ingredients
- 500 grams Chicken Breast (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 Fresh Oranges (Juiced and zested)
- 2 cups Jasmine Rice (Cooked)
Seasonings and Spices
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low Sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Sugar (Can be adjusted as per taste)
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Mixed with 2 tablespoons of water)
- To taste Salt
- To taste Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (For stir frying)
Optional Toppings
- A bunch Scallions (Finely chopped for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (For garnish)
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
Tip: Make sure the pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Peel the oranges and squeeze out the juice. You should have about 1 cup of fresh orange juice.
Tip: Roll the oranges on the counter before squeezing to get more juice.
- Chop the scallions into thin slices, separating the white and green parts.
Tip: The white parts will be used in cooking, while the green parts will be used for garnishing.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely.
- In a bowl, mix the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined. This will be your orange sauce.
Tip: Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Tip: The oil is hot enough when it shimmers.
- Add the chicken pieces to the wok and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the wok. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the scallions to the wok. Stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour the orange sauce into the wok. Stir well to coat the chicken. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- While the chicken is cooking, cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions.
Tip: Don’t forget to fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Finishing Touches
- Check the seasoning of the chicken and adjust with more salt or pepper if necessary.
Tip: Remember, the soy sauce in the orange sauce also adds saltiness to the dish.
- Transfer the stir-fried orange chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle the green parts of the scallions and the sesame seeds over the top as a garnish.
Tip: For an added touch, you can also add some orange zest.
- Serve the stir-fried orange chicken hot, with the jasmine rice on the side. Enjoy your meal!
Tip: This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Recipe Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Adjust the amount of soy sauce, sugar, and oranges to achieve your desired balance of savory and sweet. The dish is best served hot, paired with jasmine rice. Can be garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.