Hot Spicy Orange Chicken

Spicy Orange Chicken

Are you ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that's both zesty and fiery? Spicy Orange Chicken combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with a kick of heat, creating a mouthwatering entrée that is sure to delight your taste buds. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure in their meals.

Ingredients

• Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Marinade:

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• Sauce:

  • ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 orange

• 

  For Frying:

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Garnish:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Orange slices

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss them with cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.

2. Make the Marinade:

   • Combine soy sauce and rice vinegar in a bowl. Add the chicken, mix well, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, ginger, garlic, and orange zest. Set aside.

4. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

5. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce. Bring it to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.

6. Combine:

   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated and heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and orange slices. Serve hot.

Nutritional Value and Pairing Suggestions

Nutritional Value:

Spicy Orange Chicken is not only flavorful but also nutritious. Chicken is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and maintenance. The dish is rich in vitamin C from the oranges, which supports the immune system. Ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion. However, it's important to enjoy this dish in moderation due to its sodium content from the soy sauce.

Best Side Dishes and Pairings:

• Side Dishes:

  • Steamed jasmine or basmati rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
  • Stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli add a crunchy contrast and extra nutrition.
  • A simple cucumber salad with a light sesame dressing complements the spiciness of the chicken.

• Drinks:

  • Pair the dish with a light, citrusy white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the orange notes.
  • Jasmine tea or a ginger-infused iced tea provides a refreshing balance to the meal.
  • For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of orange or lemon can cleanse the palate between bites.

Indulge in this vibrant Spicy Orange Chicken dish that combines the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, and explore the endless possibilities for delightful pairings.