If you’re searching for a delicious and straightforward chicken recipe to add to your repertoire, look no further than this easy orange chicken with orange marmalade. With its delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, this homemade dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Orange chicken is a popular Chinese dish known for its crispy and tender chicken pieces coated in a mouthwatering sauce. By incorporating orange marmalade into the recipe, we elevate the flavors to a whole new level of deliciousness.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this delectable orange chicken dish. From the ingredients needed to the step-by-step instructions, you’ll have all the information required to whip up a delightful meal in no time.
So, let’s get started on this flavorful culinary adventure and discover how to make the perfect orange chicken with orange marmalade right in your own kitchen.
Key Takeaways:
- Create a sweet and tangy delight with an easy orange chicken recipe.
- Incorporate orange marmalade to add depth and flavor to your orange chicken.
- Learn how to make this homemade dish that will become a family favorite.
- Experience the crispy and tender chicken coated in a mouthwatering sauce.
- Gain step-by-step instructions to confidently prepare this delicious meal.
What is Orange Chicken?
If you’re unfamiliar with orange chicken, it is a popular Chinese dish known for its crispy and tender chicken pieces coated in a delicious sweet and tangy sauce. By combining orange marmalade with other ingredients, we’ll create a homemade version of this classic dish.
Ingredients for Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalade
In this section, we’ll go over the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious orange chicken with orange marmalade. This easy orange chicken recipe combines the zesty flavor of orange marmalade with tender chicken pieces, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and savory.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
These ingredients can typically be found in your local grocery store, making it easy to create this authentic orange chicken recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen.
How to Make Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalade
Follow our step-by-step instructions to create a delicious homemade orange chicken with orange marmalade. This crispy orange chicken recipe combines savory and tangy flavors for a delightful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the mixture, coating them thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange juice, garlic, and ginger. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the orange sauce over it. Stir until all the pieces are well coated.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
This homemade orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade is the perfect combination of crispy and saucy. The tangy sweetness of the orange marmalade adds a unique twist to this classic dish. Serve it with steamed rice and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Tips and Variations for Orange Chicken
Enhance your orange chicken recipe with these tips and explore exciting variations to elevate the flavors. Whether you’re craving a crispier texture, wanting to make it more authentic, or interested in adding Chinese-inspired twists, we’ve got you covered!
1. Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe
If you love the satisfying crunch of crispy chicken, try this variation of orange chicken. Coat the chicken pieces with a light cornstarch or flour batter before frying them to golden perfection. The result? A mouthwatering combination of crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken.
2. Authentic Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe
If you’re a fan of authentic Chinese flavors, follow these tips to make your orange chicken recipe more traditional:
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, rice wine, and ginger for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with rich umami flavors.
- Use Szechuan peppercorns or black pepper for a hint of spiciness.
- Add dried red chilies or chili sauce to give the dish a fiery kick.
3. Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken
Create a delightful combination of sweet and sour flavors by adding a splash of vinegar to the orange sauce. The tanginess will balance out the sweetness from the marmalade and create a more complex taste profile.
“The sweet and tangy flavors of orange chicken are a perfect complement to crispy fried chicken. Explore these tips and variations to add your own twist to this already delicious dish!”
4. Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your orange chicken, try making it into a stir-fry. Add vibrant bell peppers, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots to the dish for a colorful and nutritious meal. The combination of the orange sauce and fresh veggies will delight your taste buds.
5. Orange Glazed Chicken Wings
For a finger-licking appetizer or party snack, turn your orange chicken recipe into glazed chicken wings. Simply toss the cooked wings in the orange sauce and bake them in the oven until the glaze caramelizes and becomes sticky. Serve these irresistible wings at your next gathering and watch them disappear!
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Crispy Orange Chicken Recipe | Coat chicken pieces with a light batter for a satisfying crunch. |
| Authentic Chinese Orange Chicken Recipe | Add traditional Chinese ingredients for an authentic flavor. |
| Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken | Balance the sweetness with a splash of vinegar. |
| Orange Chicken Stir-Fry | Incorporate vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. |
| Orange Glazed Chicken Wings | Transform the recipe into irresistible glazed wings. |
Serving Suggestions for Orange Chicken
Orange chicken with orange marmalade is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and accompaniments to create a delicious and well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
1. Steamed Rice or Noodles
Orange chicken with orange marmalade pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. The fluffy texture of rice or the satisfying chewiness of noodles complements the sweet and sticky orange chicken sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables
Add a healthy touch to your orange chicken by serving it with a side of stir-fried vegetables. Choose a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and snow peas to provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. The vibrant flavors and crisp textures of the vegetables complement the sweetness of the orange chicken sauce.
3. Asian-Inspired Slaw
For a refreshing and light side dish, try serving orange chicken with an Asian-inspired slaw. Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers with a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil. The crunchy and zesty slaw adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and sticky orange chicken.
4. Orange Glazed Roasted Vegetables
If you want to infuse more orange flavor into your meal, serve oven-roasted vegetables glazed with an orange sauce alongside the orange chicken. Toss vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Roast until tender and caramelized, and serve them alongside the orange chicken for an explosion of flavors.
5. Fresh Citrus Salad
Add a burst of freshness to your meal by serving a citrus salad alongside the orange chicken. Combine segments of oranges and grapefruits with mixed greens, thinly sliced red onions, and a zesty vinaigrette. The vibrant citrus flavors and crisp greens provide a bright contrast to the rich and sweet orange chicken.
6. Pineapple Salsa
For a tropical twist, serve orange chicken with a refreshing pineapple salsa. Dice fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Mix them together with lime juice, salt, and pepper to create a tangy and sweet salsa. The bright flavors of the pineapple salsa complement the sticky and flavorful orange chicken sauce.
7. Cucumber Mint Raita
If you’re looking for a cooling and refreshing side dish, try serving orange chicken with a cucumber mint raita. Grate cucumbers and mix them with yogurt, fresh mint, garlic, salt, and cumin powder. This creamy and tangy raita provides a cooling element to balance the sweet and sticky orange chicken.
| Serving Suggestion | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Rice or Noodles | Pair orange chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Add a healthy touch with a side of crunchy, stir-fried vegetables. |
| Asian-Inspired Slaw | Refresh your palate with a zesty and crunchy Asian-inspired slaw. |
| Orange Glazed Roasted Vegetables | Infuse more orange flavor with roasted vegetables glazed with an orange sauce. |
| Fresh Citrus Salad | Add a burst of freshness with a citrus salad alongside the orange chicken. |
| Pineapple Salsa | Create a tropical twist by serving orange chicken with a refreshing pineapple salsa. |
| Cucumber Mint Raita | Cool down your taste buds with a creamy cucumber mint raita. |
These serving suggestions will take your orange chicken with orange marmalade to the next level, allowing you to create a memorable meal that pleases your taste buds. Experiment with different combinations and find your favorite way to savor the sweet and sticky orange chicken.
Storing and Reheating Orange Chicken
Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious orange chicken with orange marmalade, it’s important to know how to store and reheat any leftovers properly. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your dish stays fresh and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy it again later without any compromise in taste.
Tips for Storing Orange Chicken:
- Refrigerate promptly: Once you’ve finished serving your orange chicken, refrigerate any leftovers immediately to prevent bacterial growth and maintain food safety. Transfer the chicken to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store separately from sauce: To avoid the sauce making the chicken soggy, store any remaining orange sauce separately in a small container. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the chicken pieces.
- Label and date: It’s always a good practice to label your container with the date so that you can keep track of how long the leftovers have been stored. This will help you determine when it’s time to consume them.
- Refrigeration duration: Leftover orange chicken can be safely refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Beyond that, the quality and taste may start to deteriorate.
Tips for Reheating Orange Chicken:
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
- Stovetop method: Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. This method is quick and ideal for small portions.
- Microwave method: Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chicken is heated to your desired temperature.
Remember to always check that the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the same deliciousness of your orange chicken with orange marmalade even after it’s been stored. Now, let’s take a look at how this recipe compares to a traditional orange chicken recipe.
| Classic Orange Chicken Recipe | Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalade Recipe |
|---|---|
| Uses orange juice and zest | Uses orange marmalade for a more intense orange flavor |
| Requires a longer marination time | Marinates in less time, making it a quicker option |
| Coating made with cornstarch | Coating includes a mixture of cornstarch and flour for added crispiness |
| Uses traditional Chinese seasonings like soy sauce and ginger | Includes the traditional seasonings as well as the sweet and tangy flavor of orange marmalade |
Conclusion
In conclusion, our orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade offers a delightful twist on the classic dish. By combining the tangy sweetness of orange marmalade with crispy chicken, we’ve created a homemade version that will satisfy your cravings.
With its perfect balance of flavors, this orange chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The crispy coating of the chicken paired with the sticky, sweet orange sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more.
Don’t wait any longer, give our homemade orange chicken recipe a try and indulge in this delicious treat today. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this crispy orange chicken dish is sure to impress friends and family alike.
FAQ
Can I use any brand of orange marmalade for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any brand of orange marmalade that you prefer. However, make sure it has a good balance of sweetness and tanginess to enhance the flavor of the orange chicken.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use shrimp, tofu, or even pork as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
How do I make the orange chicken crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture, we recommend dredging the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying. This will create a crispy coating that pairs perfectly with the sticky orange sauce.
Can I make the orange chicken less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet orange chicken, you can reduce the amount of sugar or honey in the recipe. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more soy sauce or vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Can I make the orange chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the orange chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in a preheated oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I freeze the orange chicken?
While it’s best to consume the orange chicken fresh, you can freeze any leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-friendly bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up in a skillet or oven.
You can test also this great Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe
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