Best Easy Orange Chicken Recipe: Joshua Weissman
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make orange chicken recipe? Look no further than Joshua Weissman’s recipe, which guarantees a mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving for more. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this popular Chinese takeout dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, orange zest, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and coat each piece with cornstarch.
6. Fry the chicken in the hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. In the same skillet, pour the marinade and cook on medium heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Add the fried chicken pieces back into the skillet and toss to coat them with the thickened sauce.
9. Serve the orange chicken over steamed rice or noodles and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.
FAQs:
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
2. Can I use bottled orange juice?
While fresh orange juice is preferred for better flavor, bottled orange juice can also be used in this recipe.
3. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your desired level of spiciness.
4. Can I use a different oil for frying?
Yes, you can use any high-heat oil such as canola or peanut oil for frying.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
6. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. How long can I marinate the chicken for?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a more intense flavor.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked orange chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
9. Can I use orange marmalade instead of orange juice?
Yes, you can substitute orange marmalade for orange juice for a sweeter flavor profile.
10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version of orange chicken.
11. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the chicken is best served immediately, you can prepare the marinade and cut the chicken in advance for quicker assembly when you’re ready to cook.
With Joshua Weissman’s easy orange chicken recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of a classic Chinese takeout dish right at home. Impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.