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Crispy orange chicken topped with a tangy sauce in a bowl

Crispy Orange Chicken

A delightful dish combining tender chicken in a crispy batter with a sweet and tangy orange glaze, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 250 g Boneless chicken thigh/breast Tender and juicy chicken cuts.
  • 1 cup Corn flour (starch) Provides incredible crunch.
  • 1 piece Egg Binds the batter.
  • 2-3 tbsp Water To achieve the perfect batter consistency.
  • ½ tsp Grated ginger Adds a fragrant note.
  • 1 tsp Grated garlic Complements the chicken beautifully.
  • ½ tsp Crushed chili flakes (optional) For extra heat.
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable oil For sautéing the aromatics.
  • 1 tsp Orange zest Infuses a fresh citrus aroma.
  • 3 tbsp Orange juice (freshly squeezed) Star ingredient for sweetness and tang.
  • 2 tbsp Light soy sauce Adds depth and umami.
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar (or white sugar/honey) Balances the acidity.
  • ½ cup Chicken/vegetable stock (or water) Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 tsp Corn starch (flour) For thickening the sauce.
  • 1 tsp Sesame oil Offers a fragrant finish.
  • 1 tsp Garlic paste (finely grated) Provides additional garlic flavor.
  • ¼ tsp Baking soda Helps in making the batter extra crispy.
  • ¼ tsp White pepper Adds subtle heat.
  • Oil for frying Peanut/Canola/Sunflower or any neutral vegetable oil Essential for a crispy exterior.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by cutting the chicken into small bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with grated ginger, garlic, and crushed chili flakes (if using). Set aside to marinate.
  3. Prepare the orange sauce by mixing together orange juice, light soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, corn starch, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, corn flour, and water to create a thick batter.
  5. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully lower the battered chicken pieces into the oil and fry them in batches until crispy and golden brown.
  3. Remove from oil and transfer to a cooling rack or a plate lined with paper towel.
  4. In a large wok or pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté chopped ginger and garlic until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the prepared orange sauce, stirring continuously until it reduces and thickens.
  6. Add the crispy chicken pieces to the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly. Finish with orange zest.
  7. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped spring onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra crispy texture, double fry the chicken. Use freshly grated ginger and garlic for maximum flavor. Adjust the amount of brown sugar to balance sweetness.