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Sticky Crispy Orange Chicken: 5 Easy Steps to Perfection

Sticky Crispy Orange Chicken

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Deliciously Sticky and Crispy Orange Chicken Made Easy

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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.)
  • 34 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.)

Instructions

  1. Cut the boneless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and ground pepper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Add egg, oil, and water, whisking until smooth.
  3. Marinate the seasoned chicken in the batter for 30 to 60 minutes.
  4. Heat 3 to 4 cups of oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the chicken pieces in small batches for about 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  6. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  7. Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  8. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the thickened sauce until well coated.

Notes

    Nutrition