Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a deliciously tangy and sweet dish that will excite your taste buds! This orange chicken recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a zesty sauce made from orange marmalade, soy sauce, and a hint of heat, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish is quick to prepare and even better when cooked in a slow cooker for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that will surely satisfy your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orange marmalade
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup rice vinegar
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2-4 hours (depending on high or low setting)
Total Time: 2-4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy your flavorful orange chicken, perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned chicken and garlic to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, onion powder, and chili powder until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, stirring to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 6: Cook in Slow Cooker
Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 8: Serve the Dish
Serve the orange chicken over rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Heating
To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli or a side salad for added veggies.
Variations
Feel free to adjust the level of chili powder to suit your spice preference or add other vegetables during cooking for additional flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Coating Chicken with Cornstarch
To achieve a crispy texture, coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch. This helps absorb moisture and creates a crunchy surface when cooked.
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken in vegetable oil over medium-high heat adds depth of flavor and a nice golden-brown color. Aim for 3-4 minutes on each side but do not fully cook through.
Using a Slow Cooker
A slow cooker tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to absorb flavors from the sauce. Cooking on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours ensures the chicken becomes tender and fully cooked.
Making the Sauce
Whisking the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, onion powder, and chili powder together creates a sweet and savory sauce that beautifully complements the chicken.
Adjusting Seasoning
After cooking, taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavor. This may involve adding more salt, pepper, or other spices according to individual preference.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture. Thighs generally give a more tender and juicy outcome.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. You can also garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. The cooked orange chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption. Use a meat thermometer to check.
Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?
Yes, if you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Adjust the quantity to taste, as the flavor may differ slightly.
Conclusion
This orange chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. The slow-cooking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and infused with the robust sauce, while the pairing with rice offers a satisfying balance. Enjoy the simplicity and delicious outcome of this easy-to-follow recipe.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Orange Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Serve the orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with crunchy vegetables for a refreshing twist.
Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
Sauté the cooked chicken with additional vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a quick stir-fry option.
Orange Chicken Tacos
Use the orange chicken as a filling for soft or crunchy tacos topped with coleslaw for a fun fusion meal.
Spicy Orange Chicken Bowls
Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier version and serve it over quinoa or farro.
Orange Chicken Sandwiches
Layer the orange chicken on a toasted bun with slaw and a drizzle of extra sauce for a tasty chicken sandwich.
Healthy Orange Chicken Salad
Toss the orange chicken with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a nutritious salad option.
