Cravings Satisfied: Homemade Orange Chicken

Have you ever found yourself longing for the delicious flavors of your favorite restaurant, only to realize it's too far away? 

That's exactly how I felt when the irresistible aroma of Panda Express's Orange Chicken danced through my senses. Determined to satisfy my cravings, I decided to cook my take of our favorite Orange Chicken 🍊🍗 

With a bag of fresh oranges sitting on my counter, the idea struck me—why not use this vibrant citrusy goodness? The thought of the tangy sweetness melding with the savory chicken was enough to make my taste buds tingle with excitement. 

Of course, if fresh oranges aren't available, using regular orange juice works perfectly fine too!🍊

I starting prepping my ingredients, and got to work recreating the tantalizing flavors of the beloved dish. The sound of sizzling chicken and the aromatic scent of garlic and ginger filled my kitchen, transporting me to my happy place. As I cooked, I couldn't help to get excited and ready to eat it! 

Finally, the moment arrived. With a plate piled high with golden, crispy orange chicken, I took my first bite, and it was pure bliss. The tender chicken coated in a sticky, tangy sauce burst with flavors that delighted my palate. The fresh orange juice brought a delightful brightness, elevating the dish to new heights of deliciousness. It was a culinary victory that proved homemade can rival the best of takeout. 😋 

Definitely cravings satisfied! 

So, if you find yourself yearning for the flavors of your favorite restaurant but can't quite reach it, fear not! Take a leap of culinary faith, explore new flavors, and create your own gastronomic adventure. Let the aroma of your homemade creation fill your home with warmth and anticipation. Whether it's with fresh oranges or just regular orange juice, the possibilities are endless. 

Homemade Crispy Orange Chicken

INGREDIENTS: for 4 servings

CHICKEN

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 and 1/2 cup flour
• 1 egg
• 1/2 water or more if its to sticky
• 1 tablespoon oil
• oil for deep frying

ORANGE SAUCE

• 1 tablespoon oil
• pinch of chili flakes
• 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon minced ginger 
• 20g white sugar
• 25g brown sugar
• 50ml orange juice
• 30ml vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chinese cooking wine
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• a drizzle of sesame oil
• white sesame seeds for presentation😉

INSTRUCTIONS:

👉 Cut chicken into bite size pieces and set aside.

👉 Whisk in a medium bowl the salt, white pepper, flour and cornstarch.

👉 Gradually add the egg, oil and water. Mix until it reaches the consistency of a hotcake batter.

👉 Add the chicken to the batter and refrigerate for at least 30minutes.

👉 Next, deep fry the chicken in a wok/heavy bottom pan (375 degrees farenheit)

make sure to fry your chicken in small batches so its not too crowded.

👉 Remove chicken when golden brown. Set aside.

👉 In a separate wok heat oil. Once its hot add in the oil, add the red pepper flakes, garlic and ginger. Stirring occasionally.

👉Add in both sugars and stir to combine.

👉Add in the orange juice, vinegar and soy sauce. Stir until the sugar is dissolved completely.

👉Mix the cornstarch and water to make the slurry. Add in the sauce. 

👉Finally, add in the crispy crunchy chicken pieces into the pan until its completely covered with the sauce.

👉Drizzle with sesame oil and decorate with white sesame seeds.

That's it! Easy peasy! Grab a plate and Enjoy! oooh! don't forget the rice k? 😁 

BON APPETIT!