Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes is your go-to solution for a fast and flavorful dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious, this recipe captures the essence of takeout without the hassle. With its zesty homemade orange sauce, your family will love every bite, and you’ll enjoy how quickly it comes together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can serve a delightful meal that rivals your favorite takeout.
• Healthy Alternative: This recipe uses fresh ingredients and avoids heavy frying, making it a healthier choice for dinner.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with homemade Lo Mein noodles or white rice for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Bold Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice, ginger, and garlic creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies cravings.
• Family-Friendly: With its sweet and savory sauce, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will allow you to focus on creating a delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: This helps prevent the sauce from sticking, making cleanup easier while ensuring your chicken cooks evenly.
• Deep frying pan: A deep frying pan allows for even cooking of chicken pieces without overcrowding, leading to perfectly golden results.
• Mixing bowl: Use a mixing bowl to combine your sauce ingredients efficiently without splattering.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 whole boneless chicken thighs or 2 lbs. of chicken tenderloins
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. corn starch
• 1 tsp. black pepper or less to taste fresh ground
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• ½ tsp. ginger powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. paprika

For the Sauce

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice
• 1½ tbsp. corn starch
• 2 tbsps. vegetable oil (for sauce)
• 3 tbsps. low sodium soy sauce
• 1½ tbsp. rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 2 tbsps. brown sugar
• ½ tbsp. grated ginger
• 2 cloves fresh garlic minced
• ½ tsp. black pepper fresh ground
• 1 tsp. orange zest
• Chili flakes (optional for heat)

How to Make Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into small ½ inch cubes then coat evenly with flour, corn starch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and ginger powder.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the chicken cooks, stir together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a hot nonstick skillet set to low heat, simmering until it thickens nicely.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat all pieces well. Cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Serve the orange chicken with options like homemade Lo Mein noodles or white rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Now you have an Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes that’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

Serving your Easy Orange Chicken is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit your tastes. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

With Homemade Lo Mein Noodles

• Freshly cooked Lo Mein noodles provide a chewy texture that complements the orange chicken’s sauce perfectly. Toss them lightly with sesame oil for added flavor.

Over Steamed White Rice

• Serving the orange chicken over fluffy steamed white rice offers a classic combination. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying meal.

Garnished with Toasted Sesame Seeds

• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, elevating the dish’s presentation and taste.

Accompanied by Chopped Green Onions

• Finely chopped green onions not only add color but also a fresh bite that balances the sweetness of the orange sauce.

With Chili Flakes for Heat

• For those who enjoy some spice, adding chili flakes can elevate the dish with an extra kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

To ensure your Easy Orange Chicken turns out great every time, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you to achieve the best results in terms of flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and orange juice significantly enhance the flavors of your dish compared to their dried or bottled counterparts.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken rather than crispy bites.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference; this allows you to balance the sweet and savory notes perfectly.
• Let Sauce Thicken Properly: Simmering the sauce until it reaches a thick consistency ensures that it clings beautifully to each piece of chicken.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Adding different garnishes like sesame seeds or green onions can change up the flavors and visuals of your dish.
• Store Leftovers Wisely: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to maintain their quality.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

Pairing your Easy Orange Chicken with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options you might consider serving alongside:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients. Simply steam until tender for a healthy side.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with vegetables makes for a hearty accompaniment. Use leftover rice for quicker prep.
3. Crispy Wontons: Crunchy wontons filled with cream cheese or vegetables offer a delightful contrast in texture.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a fresh and vibrant side dish that’s easy to prepare.
5. Asian Slaw: A light slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings crunch and brightness to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and citrus dressing adds protein and fiber while complementing the chicken’s flavor.
7. Bok Choy Stir-Fry: Quick stir-fried bok choy tossed in soy sauce adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with orange chicken.
8. Roasted Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs serves as a light base that absorbs all those wonderful sauces beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to a lack of flavor. Always let it sit for at least 15 minutes for better taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for a crispy texture.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If you don’t simmer the sauce long enough, it may not thicken properly. Keep an eye on it until it reaches the right consistency.
• Using low-quality orange juice: Poor-quality juice can make your dish taste bland. Opt for fresh-squeezed or high-quality orange juice for maximum flavor.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding the chicken. You may need more seasoning based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

• Place cooled orange chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to this recipe that may help you further.

Can I make this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe without frying?

Yes! You can bake or air-fry the chicken instead of frying it. This will still yield delicious results while being healthier.

What other proteins can I use?

You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on meat choice.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and patted dry before coating and cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe in 20 Minutes is not only quick but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Pair it with rice or noodles and add vegetables as desired. Enjoy a delightful homemade takeout experience that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle!