Cilantro Orange Chicken: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe

Cilantro Orange Chicken: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Forget everything you thought you knew about orange chicken; this isn’t your average takeout dish. We’re taking the classic sweet and tangy flavors and elevating them with a vibrant burst of fresh cilantro, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

While the origins of orange chicken are rooted in American Chinese cuisine, drawing inspiration from traditional Cantonese flavors, this particular twist with cilantro adds a modern, zesty dimension. The bright, citrusy notes of orange perfectly complement the herbaceous cilantro, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. It’s a delightful fusion that bridges the gap between comfort food and sophisticated flavors.

People adore orange chicken for its irresistible combination of crispy, juicy chicken coated in a luscious, sweet, and tangy sauce. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes that makes it so universally appealing. But what makes this Cilantro Orange Chicken truly special is the addition of fresh cilantro, which cuts through the sweetness and adds a layer of complexity that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, meaning you can enjoy restaurant-quality Cilantro Orange Chicken whenever the craving strikes!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Cilantro Orange Sauce:
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 4-5 oranges)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• For Serving (Optional):
• Cooked white rice or brown rice
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Orange slices, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready for its crispy transformation! In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture will create a lovely, light coating that will crisp up beautifully in the oil.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until it’s light and frothy. This egg wash will help the dry ingredients adhere to the chicken, ensuring a nice, even coating.

3. Now, take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Shake off any excess flour – we want a light coating, not a thick, pasty one.

4. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces. Once they’re all coated, set them aside on a plate or baking sheet. This will give the coating a chance to set while we prepare the sauce.

Making the Cilantro Orange Sauce:

1. Now for the star of the show – the Cilantro Orange Sauce! In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. This combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will create a complex and delicious base for our sauce.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. This slurry will help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency. Make sure there are no lumps!

3. Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan and whisk constantly over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will start to thicken as it heats up.

4. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking (it should coat the back of a spoon), reduce the heat to low and stir in the orange zest, minced garlic, and grated ginger. These ingredients will add a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

5. If you’re using chili peppers for a bit of heat, add them now. Remember, you can adjust the amount to your preference. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

6. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and sesame oil. The cilantro will add a bright, herbaceous note, while the sesame oil will contribute a nutty, savory aroma. Give the sauce a final stir and set it aside.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Time to fry the chicken! Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of chicken sizzles immediately when dropped in. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.

2. Working in batches, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

3. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

4. Repeat this process until all the chicken is cooked.

Combining and Serving:

1. Now for the grand finale! In a large bowl, combine the crispy fried chicken with the Cilantro Orange Sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece is glistening with that delicious flavor.

2. Serve the Cilantro Orange Chicken immediately over cooked white rice or brown rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and orange slices, if desired. These garnishes will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

3. Enjoy your homemade Cilantro Orange Chicken! This dish is best served fresh, so savor every bite.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Work in batches to ensure the chicken is crispy and evenly cooked.
• Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. Bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh juice will give the sauce a brighter, more vibrant taste.
• Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preference. If you like a lot of heat, add more chili peppers. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less or omit them altogether.
• Serve immediately for the best results. The chicken will be crispiest when it’s freshly fried and coated with the sauce.
• For extra crispy chicken, you can double fry it. After the first fry, let the chicken cool slightly, then fry it again for a minute or two until it’s extra golden brown.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The chicken may not be as crispy after reheating, but it will still be delicious.

Variations:

• Add vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snow peas and add them to the chicken and sauce.
• Use different protein: Substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu.
• Make it spicier: Add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or cashews over the chicken for added crunch and flavor.

Conclusion:

This Cilantro Orange Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The bright citrus notes of the orange perfectly complement the fresh, herbaceous cilantro, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and deeply satisfying. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen. Forget takeout – this is your new go-to for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or a bed of crisp lettuce cups. Looking to add some extra veggies? Stir-fry some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas and toss them in with the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery kick.
* Make it a bowl: Combine the Cilantro Orange Chicken with rice, black beans, corn, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for a delicious and satisfying bowl.
* Party appetizer: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve it on skewers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
* Citrus Boost: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
* Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors is simply irresistible, and the fresh cilantro adds a unique twist that sets it apart from other orange chicken recipes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra protein and vegetables into your diet.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Cilantro Orange Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what you thought of the flavors, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. I love hearing from you and learning how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Cilantro Orange Chicken adventures! Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! Your feedback helps others discover this delicious dish.