Name: Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup orange juice; 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce; 1-2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon chopped pickled ginger (plus 1 tablespoon ginger juice); 3-4 tablespoons chili paste ((gochjang)); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; black pepper and chili flakes; 3 tablespoons sesame oil ((or olive oil)); 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken; 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder ((or cornstarch)); 3 tablespoons salted butter; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds or peanuts; 4 green onions, chopped

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When I first stumbled upon the idea of making Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken, I was looking for a quick weeknight meal that would pack a flavorful punch. After a long day, the thought of indulging in something sweet and savory was incredibly tempting. I remember the first time I took my first bite; the tender pieces of chicken coated in that zesty, aromatic sauce danced on my taste buds. The vibrant orange hue of the sauce was inviting, and the smell from the garlic and spices wafted through my kitchen, making my mouth water. I knew I had to recreate this deliciousness at home.

As I gathered the ingredients, I felt a wave of excitement. The combination of orange juice, soy sauce, and a hint of honey seemed like a match made in culinary heaven. With each step of the cooking process, I could already envision myself serving this dish to friends during a casual dinner get-together. Everyone loves a dish that not only tastes fantastic but also looks great on the plate. I wanted this to be that meal! It’s simple enough for a weekday yet impressive enough for company.

Once I got started, the sizzle of the chicken in the pan was music to my ears. The aroma of browning garlic surrounded me, and I could hardly wait to taste the final product. I love how versatile this dish is; it pairs perfectly with a side of rice or broccoli. You can even serve it over noodles for a comforting twist. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
8 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife

What We Adore About This Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken

There are many reasons why I absolutely adore this Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken recipe, and I can’t wait to share them with you!

1. It’s Quick and Easy

In our busy lives, spending hours in the kitchen can be a challenge. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

2. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of orange juice and garlic creates an incredible balance of sweetness and savory goodness. With every bite, you get that delightful tanginess from the orange, complemented by the rich depth of the soy sauce and the subtle kick from the chili paste. It’s a flavor explosion that never gets old!

3. Perfectly Crispy Chicken

Who doesn’t love crispy chicken? The technique of frying the chicken until it’s golden brown gives this dish its signature texture. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender inside makes every bite irresistible. Plus, I love how the sauce clings to the chicken, enhancing its deliciousness.

4. Versatile Ingredients

Another reason to love this dish is its adaptability. You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of spice. It’s a canvas for creativity!

5. A Recipe Everyone Will Love

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The sweet and savory profile appeals to all palates, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. I always get requests for the recipe from friends who try it!

What You Need for Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken

The ingredients for Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken are simple yet effective, coming together to create a delightful meal that bursts with flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the balanced sweetness of orange juice to the umami of soy sauce. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need!

1/3 cup orange juice: Provides the sweet and tangy base for the sauce.
1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce: Adds depth and savory flavor.
1-2 tablespoons honey: Enhances sweetness to balance the sauce.
1 tablespoon chopped pickled ginger, plus 1 tablespoon ginger juice: Adds a zingy kick.
3-4 tablespoons chili paste: Provides heat and complexity.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Imparts a nutty flavor.
black pepper and chili flakes: For added spice and flavor.
3 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil): Used for frying the chicken.
1 1/2 pounds ground chicken: The main protein source.
1 teaspoon arrowroot powder (or cornstarch): For thickening the sauce.
3 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
4 cloves garlic, chopped: For aromatic goodness.
1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli: Adds color and nutrition.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds or peanuts: For garnish and texture.
4 green onions, chopped: For freshness and garnish.

Making This Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! Making Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

To make the sauce, combine all the ingredients in a glass jar. This allows you to easily shake it up and mix everything together. The vibrant colors of the sauce will make you smile!
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, along with the arrowroot powder, black pepper, and chili flakes. As the chicken cooks, use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. You want it browned and cooked through, which should take about five minutes.
Once the chicken is browned, add the butter and chopped garlic. Stir it around for about two minutes until the butter is melted and the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. This step is crucial because it adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Next, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, ensuring everything is coated beautifully.
Add in the chopped broccoli to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and tender-crisp. This not only adds nutrition but also a lovely color contrast.
Once everything is cooked and coated in that delicious sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. The aroma will be irresistible, making you eager to dig in!
Serve the chicken and broccoli over bowls of rice or your favorite noodles. Top it off with some toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Tip: When frying the chicken, ensure your skillet is preheated. This will help achieve that crispy texture.
Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredient Variations: Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers or snap peas for variety!

Recipe Tips about Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken

Before you dive into making Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken, here are some handy tips to ensure your cooking experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: This dish is perfect with fluffy rice, quinoa, or even noodles. Add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili paste or leave it out altogether. You can always add hot sauce later if desired.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor profile. Avoid using powdered versions for the best results.
Garnishing: Don’t skip the toppings! Sesame seeds and green onions add not only flavor but also a lovely visual appeal to your dish.

How to Serve Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken

Serving Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken is a delight, and I love presenting it in various ways to suit different occasions.

Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The fluffy rice soaks up the delightful sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Noodles: Alternatively, you can toss the chicken with noodles for a delectable stir-fry style dish. This adds a unique twist and makes for a hearty meal.
Salad: For a lighter option, serve it over a fresh green salad. The crispy chicken adds protein while the sauce acts as a flavorful dressing.
Meal Prep: This dish is excellent for meal prep. Divide it into portions and pack with rice or vegetables for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even entertaining friends on the weekend. It’s a versatile dish that fits many occasions.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheat on the stove for best results.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just store everything in the fridge, and when you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also add some stir-fried vegetables to round out the meal and add more nutrition.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili paste or leave it out altogether. You can always add hot sauce later if you want more spice!

Conclusion

In summary, Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that can elevate your weeknight dinners. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. I encourage you to try it out for yourself! You’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients can create such delicious flavors. Bring it to your kitchen tonight and enjoy every bite!