At first glance, Orange Chicken may seem like a dish that originated in China, but it actually has its roots in North America. It is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, and you can find it in most Chinese restaurants in the United States.
In this article, we will delve into the origins of Orange Chicken, its ingredients, how it is prepared, and some variations of the dish. We will also provide some tips on how to make the perfect Orange Chicken.
Origins of Orange Chicken
Orange Chicken was invented in 1987 by Chef Andy Kao, who was working at Panda Express at the time. Panda Express is a fast-food chain that specializes in Chinese-American cuisine. Kao was looking for a new dish to add to the menu, and he came up with Orange Chicken.
The dish was an instant hit and became one of Panda Express’s most popular dishes. It is now a staple in Chinese-American cuisine and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world.
Ingredients of Orange Chicken
Orange Chicken is made with boneless, skinless chicken breast, which is cut into bite-sized pieces. The chicken is then marinated in a mixture of egg, cornstarch, and soy sauce. The chicken is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.
The sauce for Orange Chicken is made with orange juice, orange zest, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. The sauce is cooked until it thickens and becomes glossy. The fried chicken is then tossed in the sauce until it is coated.
How to Make Orange Chicken
To make Orange Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 2 eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Here's how to make Orange Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, and eggs until smooth.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until it is coated with the mixture.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep pan until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fry the chicken in batches until it is golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, vinegar, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until it is coated.
Variations of Orange Chicken
Orange Chicken is a versatile dish, and there are many variations of it. Some variations include:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it some heat.
- Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for the sugar in the sauce to give it a sweeter taste.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Add some sesame seeds to the sauce to give it a nutty flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Orange Chicken
Here are some tips for making the perfect Orange Chicken:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will be greasy and soggy.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce right before serving to keep it crispy.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for some extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that is easy to make and enjoyed by many. Whether you are a fan of Chinese-American cuisine or just looking for a new dish to try, Orange Chicken is a great option.
With its crispy fried chicken and sweet and tangy sauce, Orange Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer. And with its many variations, you can customize the dish to your liking.
When making Orange Chicken, it is important to use high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe closely. By doing so, you can ensure that your Orange Chicken turns out crispy, flavorful, and delicious.
We hope that this comprehensive guide to Orange Chicken has inspired you to try making the dish at home. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, Orange Chicken is a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
