Baked Orange Chicken

Baked Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of citrus to the dinner table, making it a favorite for families and foodies alike. This recipe showcases tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy cornstarch crust, all glazed with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Baked Orange Chicken stands out for its health-conscious twist on the traditional fried version. Instead of deep-frying, we bake the chicken, allowing each piece to develop a lovely crispiness while cutting down on unnecessary oil. The combination of orange juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a sauce that’s both sweet and savory, perfectly complementing the chicken. Plus, the addition of garlic and red chili flakes gives it an extra kick that makes every bite a flavor explosion.

Ingredient List

To create this mouthwatering Baked Orange Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped for garnish

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Baking sheet: A large sheet to spread out the chicken evenly.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the chicken and the sauce.
• Whisk or fork: To beat the eggs.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or tongs: To toss the chicken pieces in the sauce.

Baked Orange Chicken in Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Toss well to ensure that the chicken is evenly seasoned.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch. Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat it with cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This will create a nice crunchy texture once baked.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle it with 3 tablespoons of oil. Spread the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Make the Orange Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the orange sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, red chili flakes, and orange zest. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce and stir until thickened.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the glazed chicken back to the baking sheet or serve it directly in a bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To elevate your Baked Orange Chicken, consider these seasonal flavor additions:

• Add fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate broccoli or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.
• Mix in sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and crunch.
• Top with cilantro for a fresh herby flavor.

If You’re Curious

Wondering how to customize this Baked Orange Chicken recipe? Here are some ideas:

• For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Make it spicier by increasing the amount of red chili flakes or adding sriracha to the sauce.
• For a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar or honey to taste.
• Experiment with different citrus juices, like lemon or lime, for a unique twist!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Baked Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep it crispy.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish, making it even more delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just bake the chicken and toss with the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Baked Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is mild due to the red chili flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. For extra heat, feel free to add more!

The Takeaway

Baked Orange Chicken is not only a flavorful and satisfying meal, but it is also a healthier alternative to takeout. With its irresistible sweet and tangy glaze, crispy texture, and the ease of preparation, this dish is bound to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the delightful taste of homemade Baked Orange Chicken!