Sticky Crispy Orange Chicken: 5 Easy Steps to Perfection
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Deliciously Sticky and Crispy Orange Chicken Made Easy
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 30-60 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 95 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
- 2 large chicken thighs (Boneless and skinless; provides moistness and flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper (Adds a slight heat.)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (Creates a crispy coating.)
- 1 1/2 cups flour (Provides structure to the breading.)
- 1 large egg (Binds the breading mixture.)
- 1 tablespoon oil (Adds flavor and prevents sticking in the batter.)
- 1 1/8 cups water (Hydrates the batter.)
- 3–4 cups oil for frying (Needed to deep fry; temperature crucial for achieving that signature crispiness.)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (Main flavoring agent; adds acidity and sweetness.)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (Intensifies orange flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Adds umami depth.)
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar or white vinegar (Contributes tanginess.)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (Provides aromatic flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Used for thickening the sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons water (To mix with cornstarch for the sauce.)
- 1 tablespoon oil (Adds richness to the sauce.)
- Cut the boneless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and ground pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Add egg, oil, and water, whisking until smooth.
- Marinate the seasoned chicken in the batter for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Heat 3 to 4 cups of oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken pieces in small batches for about 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Toss the fried chicken pieces in the thickened sauce until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg