Orange Chicken

A Chinese takeout classic - Orange Chicken. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that make this dish so irresistible. Picture crispy chicken pieces drenched in a delicious sauce that coats every bite, making it the perfect partner for a bowl of rice. Treat yourself to a comforting and timeless meal that hits all the right spots.

Ingredients:

Chicken

•8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces

•Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

•Neutral oil, for cooking

Orange Sauce

•1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

•½ cup granulated sugar

•2 Tbsp rice vinegar

•2 Tbsp soy sauce

•1 tsp fresh ginger juice

•4 cloves garlic, minced

•1 Tbsp chili crunch (optional)

•Zest of 1 orange

•2 Tbsp cornstarch

•1 TB water

For Serving

•Cooked rice or noodles

•Sliced green onions

•Sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and cut into bite size pieces.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough neutral oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger juice, garlic, chili crunch (if using), and orange zest. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the sauce.

4. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and toss until every piece is evenly coated.

5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.